At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families and education providers in implementing SEND advice for early years settings.
- Company: Join Southend on Sea City Council, a dynamic local authority making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Full driving licence and GCSE Grade 4/C in English and Maths are essential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by promoting inclusion and supporting children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Years/Childcare/Health/Social Care and experience with SEND required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
Your New Organisation
Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend. Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance.
Your new role
We are looking for an SEND Early Years Support Worker to join the SEND Service on a full time and fixed term contract basis (11 months). As an SEND Early Years Support Worker, you will support families and education providers to implement the advice and recommendations of the Early Years SEND Advisor for families and settings. You will provide advice and support to early years settings, childminders and families on the management and support of children with SEND. You will work collaboratively with families and schools to consider all educational provision suitable for the child, promoting inclusion at all times.
You will play a key role in supporting families and early years education providers to implement the advice and recommendations of the Early Years SEND Advisor. Working collaboratively with families, settings and childminders, you will help ensure that children with SEND receive high-quality early provision that is inclusive, responsive and built on high expectations. You will support early years providers to create inclusive learning environments, enabling children to access education fully and removing barriers to learning wherever they arise. Through partnership working, you will provide guidance, advice and practical support to strengthen SEND practice across settings.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in this role, it is essential that you have sound knowledge and understanding of the SEND code of practice: 0 to 25 and Education Health and Care Plans, Children and Families Act 2014 and Equality Act 2010. Previous experience of liaising effectively and professionally with families, education staff and partner agencies both in writing and verbally is highly essential. You need to be proficient in various IT packages, be well organised and be able to prioritise and meet deadlines.
To be considered for this role, you must have experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and a Level 3 qualification in Early Years/Childcare/Health/Social Care or equivalent. Your application will not be considered if you do not have at least GCSE Grade 4/C in English and Maths or equivalent and this must be evidenced with a certificate. Your application will not be considered if you do not have a full driving Licence.
What you'll get in return
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.
What you need to do now
If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV. Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above. This will be dependent on the volume of applications received.
Southend-on-Sea City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.
R2R103897 - 130540- SEND Early Years Support Worker employer: South End City Council
Southend on Sea City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding career in local government with a strong focus on community impact and collaboration. Employees benefit from flexible working practices, extensive training and development opportunities, and a supportive work culture that prioritises work-life balance. With a diverse range of services and exciting regeneration projects, this role as an SEND Early Years Support Worker provides a unique chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in Southend.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R2R103897 - 130540- SEND Early Years Support Worker
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education and SEND sectors. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet people who work at Southend on Sea City Council or similar organisations. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's values and recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for making a difference in the community. Tailor your responses to highlight how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be liaising with families and education staff, being articulate is key. Consider mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on the closing dates – you don’t want to miss out because you waited too long!
We think you need these skills to ace R2R103897 - 130540- SEND Early Years Support Worker
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the SEND Early Years Support Worker role. Highlight any previous work with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, as well as your understanding of the SEND code of practice.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about supporting families and children with SEND. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles, and don’t forget to mention your qualifications!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be liaising with families and education providers, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and professional language, and make sure to proofread for any errors before submitting.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being considered. Make sure to submit your application before the closing date, as we may close applications early if we receive a high volume of interest!
How to prepare for a job interview at South End City Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the SEND code of practice and relevant legislation like the Children and Families Act 2014. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re well-prepared and knowledgeable about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Highlight how you’ve successfully supported families and education providers, as this will demonstrate your practical experience and ability to make a difference.
✨Practice Collaborative Scenarios
Think of ways you can illustrate your collaborative skills. Be ready to discuss how you’ve worked with families, schools, and other agencies to create inclusive learning environments. This is key for the role, so have some solid examples at hand.
✨Get Tech-Savvy
Since proficiency in IT packages is essential, be prepared to talk about your experience with various software. You might even want to mention any tools you’ve used to manage information or support educational practices, as this will show you’re organised and tech-friendly.
