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- Tasks: Lead the SEND system, ensuring effective delivery and improvement for children with special educational needs.
- Company: Award-winning Rochdale SEND System, recognised for its innovative approach and strong partnerships.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a real difference in children's lives and work within a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to ambitious goals for children's potential.
- Why this job: Be a key leader in transforming SEND services and shaping positive outcomes for families.
- Qualifications: Experience in Local Authority context, Ofsted preparation, and SEND service transformation required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
About the Role
The Rochdale SEND System is award winning and nationally recognised. We have a strong co‑production journey with children and families and have developed a set of clear outcomes for Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). As part of the implementation of the National SEND Reform and the Schools White Paper, we are redesigning our system to develop a strong integrated team approach and have agreed a set of improvement priorities. We are now ready to move forward in the recruitment of a new Head of SEND.
About You
The post holder will work as part of a well‑established Schools and Inclusion team and be responsible for the Council’s statutory SEND delivery, including leading on inspection, preparing for reform and being a key point of contact for schools and the wider system. To support this role, we have also recruited 2 Assistant Head of SEND roles. The post holder must have worked within a Local Authority Statutory Assurance context and have experience of leading preparation for Ofsted inspection, Annual Review and Transformation. Rochdale has a relational approach; we are proud of our culture and partnerships.
About Us
We are pioneering in making a difference for children and families and leading the way for SEND. We are looking for a leader with the right skill mix, experience and passion. You must be ambitious for our children and have a commitment to working hard to support them in reaching their full potential. The Head of SEND will be the leader for the SEND system and will manage a wide range of services, projects, programmes and improvements. We are looking for a dynamic and well‑organised leader with a proven track record of leadership within this field.
Qualifications
- Experience working within a Local Authority Statutory Assurance context
- Experience leading preparation for Ofsted inspection and Annual Review
- Experience in transformation and improving SEND services
Additional Information
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Head of SEND employer: Rochdale Council
Contact Detail:
Rochdale Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of SEND
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the SEND field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on the Head of SEND role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the National SEND Reform and the Schools White Paper. Show us that you’re not just familiar with the policies but also passionate about implementing them effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a strong personal brand! Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your experience in Local Authority Statutory Assurance and leadership in SEND. Make it clear why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of SEND
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in Local Authority Statutory Assurance and Ofsted preparation. We want to see how your skills align with our vision for SEND!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for making a difference in the lives of children and families shine through. We’re looking for someone who’s genuinely committed to supporting SEND, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget 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 Rochdale Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) policies, especially those relevant to local authorities. Familiarise yourself with the National SEND Reform and the Schools White Paper, as these will likely come up in conversation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your past leadership roles, particularly in relation to Ofsted inspections and Annual Reviews. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led teams through transformation and improvement initiatives in SEND services.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Rochdale values a relational approach, so highlight your experience in co-production with children, families, and schools. Share examples of how you've built partnerships and worked collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes.
✨Be Ambitious for Children
Demonstrate your passion for making a difference in the lives of children with SEND. Prepare to discuss your vision for the role and how you plan to support children in reaching their full potential, aligning with Rochdale's commitment to ambitious outcomes.