At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform SEND services for children and young people aged 0–25.
- Company: Dynamic local authority focused on improving educational outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a supportive leadership environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to meaningful system-wide change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of children and families during a crucial reform period.
- Qualifications: Significant senior leadership experience in SEND or children's services required.
The predicted salary is between 63280 - 75805 £ per year.
A South East local authority is seeking an experienced and credible senior leader to head up its Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) service during a key period of reform and transformation. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering statutory SEND services, driving improvement, and ensuring high-quality outcomes for children and young people aged 0–25.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the strategic direction and operational delivery of SEND services
- Ensure statutory duties are met consistently, accurately, and on time
- Oversee tribunals, complaints, and complex casework functions
- Drive service improvement, performance management, and quality assurance
- Lead and strengthen multi-agency partnership working across education, health, and care
- Improve early identification, intervention, and inclusive practice
- Ensure services are child-centred, outcome-focused, and evidence-led
- Work closely with senior leaders, schools, and elected members
About You
We are looking for a resilient, values-driven leader with:
- Significant senior leadership experience within SEND, education, or children’s services
- Strong knowledge of SEND legislation and statutory frameworks
- Proven experience leading service improvement in complex systems
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and elected members
- Strong analytical and data-led decision-making skills
- A commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people
What’s on Offer
- A senior strategic leadership role with real influence
- Opportunity to lead meaningful system-wide change
- Flexible working arrangements
- Supportive leadership environment focused on improvement and collaboration
This is a rare opportunity to shape SEND services at a critical time of national and local reform, with direct impact on the lives of children, young people, and families. Applications are welcomed from experienced leaders ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role.
Locations
Head of SEND in Chatham, Kent employer: Service Care Solutions
Join a forward-thinking local authority in the South East, where you will have the opportunity to lead transformative change in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. With a strong focus on collaboration and improvement, our supportive work culture encourages professional growth and offers flexible working arrangements, making it an ideal environment for passionate leaders dedicated to enhancing outcomes for children and young people.
