At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND legal compliance and manage tribunal processes to support children with special needs.
- Company: Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, dedicated to improving outcomes for young people.
- Benefits: Professional development, flexible working, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and advocate for children’s rights in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEND tribunal management and strong knowledge of SEND legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)? Do you have experience in tribunal processes, mediation and legal compliance? If so, we have an exciting opportunity to join our SEND service as a SEND Legal Compliance & Tribunal Officer.
About The Role
This is a key role within our Children’s Services team where you will lead on SEND legal compliance, mediation and tribunal processes. You will act as the Local Authority’s representative in mediation and tribunal proceedings, working closely with families, schools, legal teams and other partners to achieve timely and effective resolutions.
Responsibilities
- Manage SEND tribunal and mediation cases from initial stages through to hearing
- Represent the Local Authority at mediation meetings and tribunal hearings
- Work collaboratively with SEND officers, legal teams and partner agencies to resolve disputes early and reduce tribunal escalation
- Provide expert advice and guidance on SEND legislation and tribunal processes
- Monitor compliance, identify risks and drive continuous improvement in service delivery
- Analyse trends and produce reports to support learning and service development
Qualifications
- Proven experience in SEND tribunal management and mediation
- Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, including the SEND Code of Practice
- Experience working in education, children’s services or a related field
- Excellent negotiation, communication and problem-solving skills
- The ability to analyse information, manage risk and make informed decisions
- Experience working collaboratively with families, schools and multi-agency partners
- A relevant qualification (NVQ Level 4 or equivalent) or willingness to work towards this is essential
What We Offer
- A rewarding role where you can make a real difference
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
- A supportive, collaborative working environment
- Flexible working arrangements where possible
This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check. Travel across and beyond the borough will be required. Workplace Attendance: Working in the office 3+ days a week (pro‑ratio) or onsite full time. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults; therefore, the post is subject to medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check.
SEND Legal Compliance & Tribunal Officer employer: WMJobs
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). With a strong focus on professional development, a supportive work culture, and flexible working arrangements, we empower our staff to make meaningful contributions while fostering collaboration with families and partner agencies. Join us in a role where your expertise can lead to impactful change within the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Legal Compliance & Tribunal Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the SEND field through LinkedIn or local events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of SEND legislation and tribunal processes. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence and ensure you shine during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience! Bring examples of your past work in mediation and tribunal cases to the table. We want to see how you’ve made a difference in previous roles, so don’t hold back!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Legal Compliance & Tribunal Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND tribunal processes and legal compliance. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND shine through. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference, so share your motivation in your cover letter!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your experience and qualifications. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read!
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your SEND Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the SEND Code of Practice and any relevant legislation before your interview. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to real-life scenarios will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about improving outcomes for children with SEND.
✨Prepare for Mediation Scenarios
Think about potential mediation scenarios you might face in the role. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully resolved disputes or navigated complex situations. This will demonstrate your negotiation skills and ability to work collaboratively with families and schools.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss how you analyse trends and produce reports. Bring examples of how your analytical skills have led to improvements in service delivery or compliance in previous roles. This will highlight your ability to drive continuous improvement, which is key for this position.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the current challenges the SEND team is facing or how they measure success in their mediation processes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
