At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage Specialist SEND Services and EHCP Statutory Assessment.
- Company: Cambridge City Council, committed to high-quality service delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate of £500 for impactful leadership role.
- Other info: Initial 3-month interim contract with potential for further opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in SEND services during a critical period.
- Qualifications: Extensive senior leadership experience in SEND and statutory services.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 130000 € per year.
About the Role
Cambridge City Council is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Service to provide leadership cover across Specialist SEND Services and Alternative Provision/ EHCP Statutory Assessment Services. This is a hands-on operational leadership role and would suit an established SEND professional with recent local authority experience who is confident managing complex statutory services while supporting service improvement activity.
Location: Cambridge
Rate: £500 per day
Contract Length: Initial 3 months (interim)
Key Responsibilities
- Provide interim cover for the Head of Service for Specialist SEND Services and AP / EHCP Statutory Assessment
- Managing workload pressures and balancing operational delivery with service improvement priorities
- Provide professional supervision of District Managers, overseeing specialist teachers and practitioners supporting SEN Support and PEX prevention
- Provide professional supervision of Deputy SAT EHCP Managers
- Hold direct operational oversight of Formal complaints, Local Government, Ombudsman cases and Legal challenges relating to EHCPs and Section 19 duties
- Draft formal responses and provide legal instructions as required
About You
- Significant senior leadership experience within SEND, AP, and EHCP statutory services
- Strong understanding of statutory responsibilities and local authority processes
- Confident managing complex operational pressures alongside improvement work
- Able to work at pace and provide stability during a critical period
If you are an experienced SEND leader available for an interim assignment and would like to contribute to maintaining high quality statutory services during this period, we would be keen to hear from you.
Head of Service - SEND in Cambridge employer: Opus People Solutions
Cambridge City Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where experienced professionals can make a significant impact on the lives of children with special educational needs. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative culture, staff are supported in their roles while contributing to meaningful service improvements in the community. The location in Cambridge provides a vibrant backdrop for both personal and professional growth, making it an attractive place for dedicated SEND leaders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service - SEND in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the SEND sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of local authority processes and statutory responsibilities. We want you to feel confident discussing how you can manage operational pressures while driving service improvements.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and handled complex situations in the past. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your expertise in SEND services.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always keen to hear from experienced professionals like you who are ready to make an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service - SEND in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in SEND and local authority processes. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role is all about operational leadership, don’t forget to emphasise your senior leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've managed complex services and improved operations in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When drafting your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences shine through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus People Solutions
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and the latest local authority processes. Be ready to discuss your past experiences in managing complex statutory services and how you've contributed to service improvements.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior leadership experience, especially in overseeing teams and managing operational pressures. Think about specific situations where you provided professional supervision and how you supported your team through challenges.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to EHCPs and Section 19 duties. Practice articulating how you would handle formal complaints or legal challenges, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain stability under pressure.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the council's current priorities for SEND services or how they measure success in service improvement. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
