At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage SEND and Alternative Provision services to support children and young people.
- Company: Thurrock Council, committed to inclusive education and community support.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, flexible working, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on continuous improvement and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience in SEND services required.
The predicted salary is between 63393 - 73167 £ per year.
The postholder will provide strategic and operational leadership for the delivery of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Alternative Provision (AP) services, ensuring statutory duties are met and that children and young people receive high-quality, timely, and effective support. The post holder will lead and manage operational teams, drive continuous improvement, and work collaboratively with internal services, education settings, health partners, and families to improve outcomes, promote inclusion, and ensure efficient use of resources. The SEND/AP Operational Manager will be responsible for translating national legislation and local strategy into effective operational practice, overseeing performance, quality assurance, and compliance, while maintaining a strong focus on co-production, safeguarding, and early intervention.
What We’re Looking For
- In-depth knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and statutory requirements under the Children and Families Act 2014
- Understanding of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and the statutory assessment process
- Knowledge of specialist provisions and resource bases, including the types of needs they cater for
- Experience working within a SEND service or educational setting supporting children with Special Educational Needs
- Proven track record of liaising with parents, carers, schools, SENCOs, and multi-agency professionals
- Ability to interpret and apply legislation and policy in practice
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement
Essential qualifications:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- DBS Check: At Basic Level is required for this post
Benefits of Working with Us
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working opportunities (where applicable)
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support
- Staff discounts and local offers
- A supportive and inclusive working environment
Important Dates
- Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 22nd June 2026
- Closing Date (Internal & External): 5th July 2026
- Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact: Andrea Winstone on AWinstone@thurrock.gov.uk
To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: Download Job Profile (PDF Document)
SEND and Alternative Provision Service Manager in Grays employer: Thurrock Council
Thurrock Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees. With a strong focus on professional development, generous annual leave, and flexible working opportunities, the council ensures that its SEND and Alternative Provision Service Manager can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. Located in a vibrant area, employees benefit from local discounts and a commitment to employee wellbeing, making it an ideal place for those passionate about supporting children and young people with special educational needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND and Alternative Provision Service Manager in Grays
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Thurrock Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Thurrock Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace SEND and Alternative Provision Service Manager in Grays
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Thurrock Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Thurrock Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Thurrock Council.
