At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and improve SEND services for children and young people in a dynamic local authority.
- Company: London Local Authority offering impactful leadership opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible working arrangements, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: High-profile role with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families while driving service improvements.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in SEND leadership and strong knowledge of SEND legislation.
The predicted salary is between 37035 - 45265 £ per year.
Interim SEND Service Manager for a London Local Authority. £570 per day. Initial 3-6 month contract with a view to extension. Working arrangements TBC - fully remote or occasional office presence will be considered.
We are currently supporting a London Local Authority with the appointment of an experienced Interim SEND Service Manager to provide strategic and operational leadership across its SEND Service. This is a key leadership position with responsibility for ensuring the effective delivery of statutory SEND services for children and young people aged 0-25, whilst driving improvements in performance, compliance, service quality and outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership across the SEND Service
- Oversee the effective delivery of EHC Needs Assessments and EHCPs
- Ensure statutory timescales, quality standards and legislative requirements are consistently met
- Provide oversight of Annual Reviews, mediation and SEND Tribunal activity
- Monitor and improve service performance, productivity and statutory compliance
- Identify areas of service pressure and implement effective improvement plans
- Provide strong leadership and direction to SEND managers and operational teams
- Work collaboratively with Education, Health and Social Care partners
- Ensure children, young people and families receive high-quality, person-centred services
- Drive continuous improvement across SEND systems, processes and practice
- Support the Local Authority in meeting its duties under the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice
About You
We are looking for an established SEND leader with significant experience operating within a Local Authority environment. You will ideally have:
- Previous experience at SEND Service Manager, Head of SEND or a comparable senior management level
- Extensive knowledge of statutory SEND legislation and the SEND Code of Practice
- Strong operational knowledge of EHCNAs, EHCPs, Annual Reviews and Tribunal processes
- Experience managing performance and improving statutory compliance
- A track record of leading SEND service improvement
- Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
- The ability to quickly assess service pressures, establish priorities and provide operational grip
- Experience working collaboratively across Education, Health and Social Care
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced interim SEND leader to join a London Local Authority in a high-profile role with the scope to make a genuine impact across the service.
To discuss the position confidentially or make an application, please submit your latest CV and contact Richard.
SEND Service Manager in London employer: Spencer Clarke Group
As a SEND Development Manager with a London Local Authority, you will be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing the skills and capabilities of the SEND workforce. The role offers highly flexible remote working arrangements, fostering a supportive culture that prioritises professional development and continuous improvement. With a focus on empowering staff through tailored training and mentorship, this position provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of both practitioners and the communities they serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Service Manager in London
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Service Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spencer Clarke Group
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Spencer Clarke Group.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Spencer Clarke Group that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
