At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the SEND Reform Plan to improve support for children and young people.
- Company: Somerset Council, dedicated to transforming lives through better services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on co-production and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people and drive meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Experience in service improvement and knowledge of the SEND system required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
We want Somerset’s children and young people to be able to move through the world without having to force their way through it. And that means that our SEND system needs to do better.
Of course, that’s easier said than done after all, it’s common knowledge that the SEND system is facing nationwide structural challenges. But doing nothing isn’t an option, and we’re committed to finding a way to provide the right support, in the right way, right when it’s needed.
In response to the Education White Paper, we’re developing an exciting and ambitious SEND Reform Plan for Somerset. This will include the delivery of the new Experts at Hand model, placement sufficiency and future partnership, which this role will lead on. So, this brand-new role presents an amazing opportunity to bring your service improvement and programme management skills to bear on an absolutely life-changing area of our work.
We’ll look to you to work with the full range of stakeholders – from senior colleagues to system partners – in a way which generates both insight about how we can get better, and a practical shared roadmap to deliver that improvement. It’s a wide-ranging and influential role, and you’ll bring real energy and inspiration to the task of transforming the service and the experience of the young people we support.
A track record of delivering lasting change in a frontline service (ideally within Children’s Services), and wide knowledge of inclusion and the SEND system, are both essential. You must have strong organisational and financial skills and be able to bring together policymakers and experts by experience in a way that rewards everyone. Committed to a consultative, co-producing and appreciative approach, you’ll have the personal optimism and resilience to work through the kinds of complex issues that might defeat others.
Head of SEND Reform employer: The Training Brokers Ltd
At Somerset County Council, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for our employees, particularly in the transformative role of Head of SEND Reform. Our commitment to professional development, collaborative work culture, and meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people makes us an exceptional employer. Join us in leading innovative changes within the SEND system, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions will directly enhance the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of SEND Reform
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the SEND sector, attend relevant events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in SEND reform. Show us that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the challenges and opportunities in the field. We want to see your insights!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the role of Head of SEND Reform. We want to hear how you can bring real change and improvement to the service.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of SEND Reform
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for improving the SEND system shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference for children and young people in Somerset.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in service improvement and programme management. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they relate to the role of Head of SEND Reform.
Engage with Stakeholders:Since this role involves working with various stakeholders, mention any past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with different groups. We want to know how you can bring people together to create positive change.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Training Brokers Ltd
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in the SEND system and the Education White Paper. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the challenges but also passionate about finding solutions.
✨Showcase Your Change-Making Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully delivered lasting change in a frontline service. Highlight your service improvement and programme management skills, as these will be crucial for the role.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to work with a diverse range of stakeholders. Be ready to discuss strategies you've used to bring together policymakers and experts by experience, showcasing your consultative and co-producing approach.
✨Bring Your Optimism and Resilience
This role will involve tackling complex issues, so it's important to convey your personal optimism and resilience during the interview. Share stories that illustrate how you've navigated challenges in the past and how you maintain a positive outlook.
