At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a project to develop a sustainable SEND funding framework and analyse educational data.
- Company: We Do Social Work, supporting local authorities in impactful projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and the chance to shape future education funding.
- Other info: Opportunity to work independently and engage with key stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in SEND services and influence funding decisions for schools.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND services and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
SEND Consultant
Location
Hybrid / Flexible
Contract
Consultancy / Fixed-Term (to be agreed)
Salary
Competitive, dependent on experience
We Do Social Work is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of our local authority client for an experienced
SEND Consultant to lead a high-profile project focused on developing a robust, transparent and sustainable SEND funding framework.
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly experienced SEND professional to make a lasting impact by supporting the development of a fair and evidence-based banding model that will shape future funding decisions across mainstream, specialist and post-16 education settings.
Working independently, you will lead the testing and refinement of a proposed SEND banding framework, develop a comprehensive cost library to underpin funding decisions, and ensure the work is aligned with emerging national SEND reforms and the Schools White Paper.
The Role
As the successful consultant, you will provide expert advice and analysis, working closely with local authority officers, schools and finance teams to ensure the proposed funding framework is accurate, transparent and fit for the future.
Key Responsibilities
- SEND Banding Framework
- Lead the testing and validation of the proposed SEND banding framework.
- Use case studies, data analysis and scenario modelling to assess fairness, consistency and financial accuracy.
- Identify areas for improvement and recommend practical enhancements.
- Ensure the framework reflects levels of need across mainstream, specialist and post-16 education settings.
- Cost Library Development
- Design and develop a transparent, evidence-based cost library to support funding decisions.
- Analyse financial information from schools, specialist providers, local authority finance teams and national benchmarking data.
- Establish clear costing methodologies with documented assumptions and supporting evidence.
- Produce a sustainable model that can be maintained and updated as required.
- SEND Reform and Policy Alignment
- Review the implications of the Schools White Paper and wider SEND reform agenda.
- Ensure the proposed framework is aligned with anticipated national policy and funding changes.
- Recommend practical approaches to support future implementation and transition.
- Analysis and Reporting
- Produce detailed reports outlining methodology, findings and recommendations.
- Analyse financial and operational data to validate assumptions and assess financial impact.
- Present complex information clearly to senior leaders, governance boards and education partners.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Build effective relationships with local authority officers, SENCOs, school leaders, finance colleagues and other stakeholders.
- Gather insight and feedback to inform the development of the framework.
- Present findings and recommendations to project boards and governance groups.
- Support stakeholder understanding and confidence in the proposed funding model.
About You
We're looking to speak with experienced SEND professionals who can demonstrate a strong background in local authority SEND services and education funding.
Essential Experience
- Significant experience working within a local authority SEND service.
- Strong understanding of operational SEND practice across schools and education settings.
- Experience delivering complex consultancy, transformation or improvement projects independently.
- Proven ability to produce high-quality reports and strategic recommendations.
Essential Skills
- Excellent analytical, financial modelling and data interpretation skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to explain complex information clearly to a range of audiences.
- Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
- In-depth understanding of statutory SEND legislation, policy and processes.
- Ability to interpret national reforms and translate them into practical local solutions.
Desirable
- Experience designing, reviewing or implementing SEND banding frameworks.
- Knowledge of the Schools White Paper and current SEND funding reforms.
- Experience developing cost models, resource allocation frameworks or education funding methodologies.
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SEND Consultant in Swindon employer: We Do Social Work
We Do Social Work is an excellent employer located in Altrincham, offering a supportive and friendly work environment where employees can thrive. With a focus on professional development and career progression, this role provides a unique opportunity to engage in diverse tasks while contributing to a growing specialist recruitment agency dedicated to making a difference in the public sector. Join us to build your skills and be part of a team that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Consultant in Swindon
✨Get Involved in Local Community Projects
One of the best ways to land a temporary role in social work is to dive headfirst into local community projects. Volunteer your time or skills at local charities or community centres to not only gain experience but also to connect with professionals in the field. They might just have some insider knowledge on temporary positions that pop up!
✨Engage with Social Work Networks
Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn have dedicated groups where professionals share temporary job opportunities. Being an active member can help you stay in the loop and even get recommendations from those already in the field.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops, seminars, or conferences related to social work in your area. These events aren't just great for learning; they're also hotbeds for networking! You never know who might be hiring or can point you towards a temporary position while you're soaking up new skills.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website!
When you spot a role that piques your interest, especially for a temporary position, make sure to apply directly through our website! This not only shows your commitment to We Do Social Work, but also gives you an edge by putting your application right in front of the hiring team. Let’s get you moving on that path to your next opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Consultant in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let's highlight why you're passionate about social work and how your values align with those of We Do Social Work. Share specific experiences where you made a difference, as this field thrives on genuine motivation and connection.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, focus on any internships, volunteer roles, or temporary positions you've had in social work or related fields. Those skills are gold! Think about situations where you helped individuals or communities, and don't forget to mention any relevant certifications, like safeguarding or mental health first aid.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Remember, for a temporary role, hiring managers want to see how you fit in and can hit the ground running. Keep your CV clear and to the point, showcasing only the experience that really matters for the role at We Do Social Work. We recommend a two-page limit – make every word count!
Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability:Considering this is a temporary position, it's vital to show you can adapt to new environments quickly. In your application, highlight any past experiences where you had to adjust to different teams or roles smoothly. This shows you understand the nature of temporary work and are ready for the challenge!
How to prepare for a job interview at We Do Social Work
✨Sharpen Your Empathy Skills
In social work, it's all about understanding and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Make sure to prepare some examples from your experience where you've demonstrated empathy and resilience. Practising active listening techniques can help you articulate your approach during the interview with We Do Social Work.
✨Know Your Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with key social work theories and frameworks, like the ecological systems theory or person-centred approaches. These concepts might pop up during your interview for the temporary SEND Consultant role at We Do Social Work, so it's good to have a couple of insights ready to share.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
Since this is a temporary position, showcasing your flexibility is key. Be prepared to discuss past experiences where you quickly adapted to new environments or changing client needs, which is crucial in the dynamic world of social work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific challenges you might face in the field. Having a clear structure for your answers will show We Do Social Work that you can think critically and act effectively under pressure.
