At a Glance
- Tasks: Support families of children with special educational needs and disabilities in Southend-on-Sea.
- Company: Join Southend-on-Sea City Council, a dynamic local authority making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Part-time role with hybrid working; perfect for balancing studies and work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of children and young people with SEND.
- Qualifications: Passion for supporting families and knowledge of SEND processes is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ 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. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Your new role Are you ready to make a positive difference to the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Southend-on-Sea? Southend-on-Sea City Council is looking for a passionate and committed SENDIASS Officer to join the team on a part-time basis (22 hours per week worked over 3 days) for a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a rewarding opportunity where you will be acting as point of contact for those seeking information, advice, and guidance about their child’s (age 0-25) SEND journey.
In this varied role, you will provide tailored advice and support to families. You will do this at face‑to‑face meetings in nurseries, schools, colleges, support groups, training sessions and workshops across the city, and also provide advice via telephone and email. You will be supported with comprehensive training to build your knowledge of SEND legislation covering national and local policy, enabling you to offer informed and accurate information and guidance.
You will take ownership of casework concerning children/young people with SEND aged 0–25, providing clear, practical advice and guidance about SEN Support in education (for those with or without EHC Plans), statutory assessments and processes, mediation, appeals, and tribunal processes to parent carers and in some cases to a young person directly. Although this contract is offered on a hybrid basis, the successful candidate will be predominantly out and about visiting schools/colleges, community hubs, working from office and occasionally working from home. Please note this is a term‑time / part‑time role – 22 hours over 3 days (Advertised salary will be pro rata).
What you'll need to succeed To succeed in this role, you’ll bring a strong understanding of SEND and a genuine passion for supporting families. Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice (2015) and the Children and Families Act (2014) will be highly beneficial, alongside experience of SEND processes within an education setting or a Local Authority. Previous successful experience of working relationships with parents, carers, and or pupils with SEN is essential for this role. Effective communication is vital as you will be liaising with parents/carers, young people, education settings and other agencies both verbally and in writing. Although your role will be one of impartiality, it is essential that you can work closely with other services to ensure the right support is identified & the best possible outcomes achieved for all children & young people with SEND. Your application will not be considered without a full and clean driving license.
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. 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.
R2R103931 - 105091 - SENDIASS Officer in Southend-on-Sea employer: South End City Council
Southend on Sea City Council is an excellent employer, offering a rewarding career in local government with a strong focus on community impact and employee well-being. With flexible working practices, comprehensive training, and a commitment to professional development, staff are empowered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. The collaborative and innovative work culture, combined with the diverse opportunities available within the council, makes it a fantastic place to grow your career while contributing to the vibrant community of Southend-on-Sea.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R2R103931 - 105091 - SENDIASS Officer in Southend-on-Sea
✨Get Involved in Local Initiatives
Dive into local community projects or volunteer with public sector organisations. This puts you directly in contact with people who could help you get your foot in the door for part-time roles at places like South End City Council.
✨Use LinkedIn for Public Sector Connections
Don’t just rely on the job listings! Connect with professionals in the government and public sector on LinkedIn. Engage with their posts, join relevant groups, and keep an eye out for any local job shares or network events where you can meet people from South End City Council directly.
✨Check Out Job Fairs and Community Events
Local job fairs or community events are goldmines if you're searching for part-time opportunities. Many public sector roles get filled via these platforms, so make sure you're there to chat with employers like South End City Council and show your enthusiasm!
✨Tailored Applications on Our Website
When you see a part-time role at South End City Council, apply through our website to keep things straightforward. Highlight specific skills and experiences in public sector work relevant to the role – it helps you stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace R2R103931 - 105091 - SENDIASS Officer in Southend-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Public Service Passion:When applying for a part-time role in the government or public sector, it's vital to express your enthusiasm for public service. Share why you’re interested in contributing to South End City Council and how your values align with their mission. We love to see candidates who really care about making a difference!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail any previous volunteer work, internships, or jobs that demonstrate your commitment to public service. This is important in the government sector! If you've been involved in community projects or have relevant academic courses, bring those into your CV to stand out.
Tailor Your CV for Public Sector Standards:In the public sector, it’s common to focus on your skills and experiences that align specifically with the role. Ensure your CV includes clear examples of how your background fits the responsibilities outlined in the job posting for R2R103931 - 105091 - SENDIASS Officer at South End City Council. Use bullet points for clarity—it's all about making it easy for the hiring team!
Keep It Professional, But Personal:While we want you to be personable, don’t shy away from a formal tone in your cover letter. Share your motivations and what you hope to learn in this part-time role at South End City Council. It’s a balance of showing who you are while respecting the formal nature of the public sector!
How to prepare for a job interview at South End City Council
✨Show Your Commitment to Public Service
Part-time roles in the government or public sector often attract candidates who are passionate about making a difference. Let's highlight your dedication to public service during the interview. Be prepared to discuss any volunteer work or projects that showcase your commitment to the community and alignment with the mission of South End City Council.
✨Familiarity with Policy and Regulation
Understanding government policies and regulations is crucial in this field. Brush up on relevant laws or initiatives that impact the role you're applying for. We can also prep you for scenario-based questions where you might have to demonstrate how you'd navigate specific public issues relevant to R2R103931 - 105091 - SENDIASS Officer.
✨Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
Whether it’s communication, research, or analytical skills, make sure to relate your experience to the competencies sought by South End City Council. Discuss how your part-time availability complements your studies or other commitments, showing that you are ready to juggle responsibilities while bringing valuable skills to the table.
✨Prepare for Group Interviews
Public sector roles often involve teamwork, so you might find yourself in a group interview setting. We should practice how to effectively engage with others during the interview while also demonstrating your individual contributions. Show that you’re a team player, ready to collaborate for the greater good!
