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- Tasks: Lead transformational change for children with additional needs in Sheffield.
- Company: Sheffield City Council, committed to inclusion and support for all children.
- Benefits: Generous holiday entitlement, flexible working options, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team focused on equality and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people and shape future SEND provision.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND and education, with strong leadership and collaboration skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you ready to lead transformational change for children and young people in Sheffield? We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to take on this role - someone who can deliver on our promise to provide outstanding support and outcomes for every child with additional needs.
Role and responsibilities
You will be at the forefront of our SEND Transformation Programme, driving systemwide improvements, championing collaborative working, and ensuring our services are joined up, efficient, and focused on quality. This is your chance to shape our ambitious plans for the future of SEND provision in a city that is committed to inclusion and making a real difference to those we serve. As a key member of our leadership team, you will oversee a dedicated SEND workforce and manage a significant budget to deliver high-impact services for young people.
We are looking for a diplomatic and visionary leader - someone who can build morale, model best practice, and hold teams to account while fostering a culture of support, learning, and continuous improvement. Your expertise in SEND and education, alongside your ability to unite partners and drive change, will be vital as we move forward through our delivery plans.
How to apply and contact
If you are passionate about making Sheffield a place where our children with additional needs can thrive and achieve their ambitions for adulthood, we want to hear from you.
For an informal conversation about this role, please contact:
- Zara Bruton
Email: zbruton@faerfield.co.uk
Tel: 0121 312 3755 - Helen Sawbridge
Email: hsawbridge@faerfield.co.uk
Tel: 0121 312 3755
To apply:
To apply for this job please click on this link to apply via Faerfield and fill out the requested information. When prompted, please submit your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than four sides of A4 each). With your CV, please also provide the names and contact details of two referees, one of whom should be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be contacted if you reach the final stages, and we will not contact referees without your permission. Your supporting statement should express why you are interested in this role and what experience you can bring to the organisation. The statement should tackle the specific requirements of the role; outlining examples and outcomes showing how you meet those requirements.
Diversity and inclusion and working arrangements
We are investing in our workforce and are promoting opportunities to our under-represented groups. We value equality, diversity and inclusion and are focused on increasing the diversity of our workforce, particularly the number of Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic, Disabled and LGBTQ+ people, so that our teams reflect the communities in the city we serve. We are also supporting staff with unpaid caring responsibilities to work flexibly.
Job details
It is a great time to join us and we welcome your application. Under the Guaranteed Interview scheme, applicants who are disabled, care leavers, or armed forces veterans will be guaranteed an interview if they meet the essential criteria and indicate their eligibility on the application form. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all individuals, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for everyone and where appropriate to the role the successful applicant will be required to undertake relevant safeguarding checks.
Full-time employees work 37 hours for 52 weeks of the year and we offer a generous holiday entitlement. We are open to discussions about a wide range of flexible working opportunities which benefit you and the Council, including reduced hour contracts, working part time or as a job share. If you are appointed to this role, your starting salary will be at the bottom of the grade. If you provide payslip evidence that your basic pay is greater than the bottom of the grade, we will consider starting you at the point of minimum advantage within the grade. Equality of pay is extremely important to us. All roles at Sheffield City Council are going through an evaluation process which may result in changes to some pay arrangements from 2026.
Assistant Director of SEND in Sheffield employer: Sheffield City Council HQ
Contact Detail:
Sheffield City Council HQ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director of SEND in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those already working in SEND. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Show us how your vision aligns with their goals for SEND transformation. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience and passion for making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from showcasing your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven change and improved outcomes in previous roles. We want to see your strategic thinking in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to support children with additional needs in Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director of SEND in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Make sure your supporting statement is personalised for this role. Highlight your passion for SEND and how your experience aligns with the job requirements. We want to see your unique perspective and what you can bring to the table!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a potential Assistant Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Share specific examples of how you've driven change or improved services in previous roles. We love seeing how you can inspire and unite teams!
Keep It Concise and Relevant: Remember, your CV and supporting statement should be clear and to the point. Stick to the four sides of A4 for your statement and ensure every word counts. We appreciate clarity and focus in applications!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sheffield City Council HQ
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) before the interview. Familiarise yourself with current policies, best practices, and the specific challenges faced in Sheffield. This will show that you're not just passionate but also well-informed and ready to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and driving change. Think about times when you've successfully managed a project or improved a service. Be ready to discuss how you can build morale and foster a culture of support and continuous improvement within the SEND workforce.
✨Connect with Their Vision
Understand the organisation's goals for SEND provision in Sheffield. Be prepared to articulate how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their ambitious plans. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but that you're genuinely invested in making a difference.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your interest and insight. Ask about their current SEND Transformation Programme or how they measure success in their initiatives. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is engaged and forward-thinking.