At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic SEND initiatives and collaborate with partners to enhance support for children and young people.
- Company: Local authority focused on inclusive education and community well-being.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for impactful work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of SEND services and empower young people in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND or related fields and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
This is an opportunity to provide strategic leadership across the borough, working collaboratively with education, health and social care partners, schools, colleges, families and young people to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the right support at the right time.
Key responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership for SEND improvement across the local authority and wider partnership
- Lead the development, implementation and review of SEND strategies, plans and priorities
- Work closely with schools, early years settings, colleges, health and social care partners and other agencies to develop effective and inclusive provision
- Support the local authority to meet its statutory responsibilities for children and young people with SEND
- Lead on service improvement, quality assurance and performance monitoring, using data and intelligence to identify priorities and drive better outcomes
- Contribute to the development of sufficiency and commissioning plans to ensure appropriate SEND provision is available locally
- Support effective preparation for inspections, reviews and external scrutiny
- Lead and influence multi-agency work, promoting a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement
Key Requirements:
- Significant experience of working within SEND, education, children's services or a closely related area
- Strong knowledge of the SEND statutory framework and current national policy and practice
- Experience of leading strategic change and service improvement in a complex organisation
- A strong understanding of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), inclusive practice and the wider SEND system
- The ability to analyse data, identify priorities and translate evidence into effective improvement activity
SEND Lead in London employer: VennGroup
As an Interim SEND Lead in London, you will be part of a dynamic and collaborative work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, allowing you to lead strategic initiatives and work closely with diverse partners across education, health, and social care. With a focus on inclusivity and continuous improvement, this position not only impacts the local community but also provides a rewarding experience in a vibrant city known for its commitment to education and support services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Lead 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 Lead 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 VennGroup
✨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 VennGroup.
✨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 VennGroup 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.