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- Tasks: Lead and shape SEND services, driving inclusion and improving outcomes for children and young people.
- Company: Sandwell, a community-focused organisation dedicated to empowering residents and enhancing local services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming lives and creating inclusive environments for all children.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in complex organisations and a deep understanding of SEND provision.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to breaking down barriers and fostering collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Enabling People, Empowering Communities, Enhancing Places. Sandwell’s story is one of potential and striving to realise the ambitions of our borough, our residents and communities. We have been through a period of significant challenge including government intervention, but through determination and our drive for excellence, we look to the future with pride and a sense of purpose. While we have come so far, there is more to do; breaking down silos, embedding our values across the organisation, and ensuring that we continue to transform to deliver the best services for residents.
Created 50 years ago from six proud towns, each unique but united by a shared identity and rich culture, Sandwell is a place built on making things happen, and where children, young people and families have the best opportunity to thrive.
Following a restructure that has led to the creation of three new Service Director posts, we are taking a new approach to supporting children and young people who need our support, and seeking to appoint an exceptional Service Director - SEND and Inclusion to lead our local area approach to inclusion, SEND services and statutory delivery. You will shape and deliver provision responding to the evolving policy landscape, including the recently released White Paper, ‘Every Child Achieving and Thriving’, strengthening multi‑agency partnerships, and driving improvements across education, health and care pathways.
You will develop strong relationships with schools, creating a holistic inclusive model where we view the whole life journey of the child and support individuals to remain in mainstream provision. You will oversee a wide portfolio including SEND statutory services, educational psychology, specialist teaching teams, sensory services, inclusion support, fair access and exclusions, alternative provision, SEND transport and inclusion strategy. You will lead quality assurance, inspection readiness and continuous improvement across the local area, ensuring high quality EHC planning, early identification, timely intervention and strong transitions to adulthood.
Working closely with schools, academies, early years settings, post‑16 providers, health partners, social care and the voluntary sector, you will build collaborative, evidence‑led approaches that reduce inequalities and improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND. You will also jointly lead specialist place planning across the education system.
We are looking for a confident, credible senior leader with significant experience in complex organisations, a deep understanding of SEND provision and inclusion practice, and a strong track record of driving change, managing performance and shaping system wide improvement.
If you’re passionate about inclusive practice and improving life chances for children and young people with SEND, we’d love to hear from you.
For further information speak to our executive search partners GatenbySanderson: Becky Downs.
Closing date: 10 April 2026.
Service Director - SEND and Inclusion in Birmingham employer: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Director - SEND and Inclusion in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to SEND and inclusion. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for inclusive practices and improving outcomes for children. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to this cause.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest policies and initiatives in SEND. Being knowledgeable about the White Paper ‘Every Child Achieving and Thriving’ will show that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in making a real impact in the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission. So, hit that 'Apply Now' button and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Service Director - SEND and Inclusion in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for SEND and inclusion shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the lives of children and young people. Share personal experiences or insights that fuel your commitment to this important work.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically to the Service Director role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. We’re looking for someone who understands the complexities of SEND provision, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Be Clear and Concise: While we appreciate detail, clarity is key! Keep your application clear and concise, ensuring that your main points stand out. Use bullet points where appropriate to make it easy for us to read and understand your qualifications and vision for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our values and what we stand for at Sandwell.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of SEND services and inclusion practices. Familiarise yourself with the latest policies, like the White Paper ‘Every Child Achieving and Thriving’. This will show that you're not just passionate but also well-informed about the current landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in complex organisations. Highlight your experience in driving change and managing performance, as this role requires a confident and credible senior leader.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships with various stakeholders, including schools, health partners, and social care. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've collaborated effectively to improve outcomes for children and young people.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Be prepared to talk about your approach to quality assurance and continuous improvement. Share examples of how you've implemented strategies that led to better EHC planning, early identification, and timely interventions in your previous roles.