At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and implement statutory SEN processes for children with EHC Plans.
- Company: Join Wakefield Council’s dedicated Special Educational Needs Assessment and Review Team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, hybrid working, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive work environment with great work-life balance and numerous employee benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and families while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of SEN legislation and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Wakefield Council’s Special Educational Needs Assessment and Review Team (SENART) is seeking to appoint a Special Educational Needs Casework Officer. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated and experienced team, delivering statutory responsibilities for children and young people with Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans.
About the Role
As a Casework Officer, you will be responsible for the implementation and management of statutory SEN processes and outcomes, in line with legislative requirements including the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice 2015. You will manage a large and complex caseload of children and young people with EHC Plans, ensuring timely and high-quality responses to parents, schools, and partner agencies.
Key responsibilities include:
- Producing and amending EHC Plans based on multi‑agency input
- Coordinating and attending statutory review meetings
- Supporting the co‑production of plans with families and professionals
- Offering statutory advice and training to schools and parents
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has strong knowledge of SEN legislation and statutory duties
- Can handle a varied workload under pressure with a calm and focused approach
- Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Is committed to delivering high standards of customer service
- Has a flexible, proactive attitude and the ability to adapt in a fast‑paced environment
- Experience with Post‑16 Preparation for Adulthood would be advantageous
What can I expect?
- A competitive salary
- Generous holiday entitlement with the option to buy up to 10 extra days of annual leave
- Hybrid working (subject to role suitability)
- Access to high‑quality training programs to advance your career to the next level
- We are committed to supporting the wellbeing of our staff. We recognise that resilient teams need good work‑life balance as well as supportive leadership
- Discounted and subsidised public transport (Arriva Bus Annual Travel Ticket, Northern Trains Limited (NTL), MetroCard)
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and a Shared Cost Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVC) scheme providing a tax efficient way to increase our pension
- Great range of benefits including an Employee Assistant Programme, discounted membership to our excellent leisure facilities with free 12 weeks exercise programme, discounts for a range of retail, entertainment, health and leisure providers, a cycle to work scheme, and many more
SEN Caseworker Officer in Wakefield employer: Wakefield Council
Wakefield Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people with special educational needs. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, generous benefits including hybrid working options, extensive training programmes, and a strong focus on work-life balance, staff are empowered to grow and thrive in their careers while contributing to meaningful outcomes in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Caseworker Officer in Wakefield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Wakefield Council, especially those in the SENART team. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the role and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your SEN legislation knowledge. We should be ready to discuss how we can implement and manage statutory processes effectively, showing that we’re the perfect fit for the Casework Officer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our communication skills! During interviews, let’s share examples of how we’ve successfully collaborated with families and professionals in the past. This will highlight our ability to co-produce plans and support others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep an eye on any updates or new opportunities that pop up in the SEN field.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Caseworker Officer in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SEN legislation and the Children and Families Act 2014. We want to see that you understand the ins and outs of the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in your application!
Tailor Your Application:When applying, tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with EHC Plans and managing complex caseloads. We love seeing how your skills match what we’re looking for, so make it personal and relevant!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:As a Casework Officer, communication is key! Use your application to demonstrate your excellent interpersonal skills. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated with parents, schools, and other agencies in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wakefield Council
✨Know Your SEN Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice 2015. Being able to discuss these in detail will show your understanding of the statutory responsibilities you'll be handling as a Casework Officer.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Think about times when you've successfully coordinated with parents, schools, or other agencies, as this will demonstrate your ability to manage relationships effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Since you'll be managing a large and complex caseload, come prepared with strategies you've used in the past to handle varied workloads under pressure. Discuss how you prioritise tasks and ensure timely responses to all stakeholders.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to SEN casework. Prepare to discuss how you would approach producing EHC Plans or coordinating review meetings, showcasing your proactive attitude and problem-solving skills.