At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the SEND team with casework and administrative tasks for vulnerable children.
- Company: Join Wokingham Borough Council, a supportive local government committed to community welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, a pension scheme, gym access, and lifestyle discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs or equivalent, good IT skills, and understanding of SEN legislation required.
- Other info: This is a permanent, full-time role with a focus on safeguarding and support.
The predicted salary is between 25500 - 28700 Β£ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity available for a SEND Casework Assistant to join our supportive SEND team here at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full time, permanent basis.
As the SEND Casework Assistant, you will play a key role in providing casework support to the SEND Team, enabling the front-line service to function efficiently and meet its statutory obligations in accordance with the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice 2015 and other related legislation, government guidelines and local policy. This role will prioritise the statutory processes for vulnerable children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans, ensuring appropriate provision is identified without delays.
Benefits
- A generous annual leave entitlement of 28 days (rising to 33 days after 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays
- An excellent local government pension scheme
- An employee assistance programme including 24/7 wellbeing helpline
- A range of local & lifestyle discounts
- Use of a free onsite gym (located at Shute End office)
- Salary sacrifice car & cycle to work schemes
- And much more!
Key responsibilities:
- Act as the first point of contact for all general SEND calls, dealing effectively with enquiries wherever possible, or referring to the relevant officer as required.
- Provide administrative support to the SEND team, primarily the SEND Case Officers
- Plan, organise and supervise allocated activities within procedural and regulatory framework
- Ensure individual care plans are implemented, and the personal and health care needs of service users are met, working within guidelines and procedures, and record service user progress.
- Liaise with carers, relatives, colleagues and other agencies to ensure good communication and service to users
Candidate requirements:
- Understanding of SEN legislation and procedures
- Minimum of 5 GCSEs or equivalent
- Good IT skills, including word processing skills in Microsoft Office, and in database systems
- Understanding of schools as learning environments and roles and responsibilities of a LA
- Ability to write detailed and complex reports independently utilising information provided by both internal and external colleagues
If youβre interested in this exciting opportunity, click the link below and apply today!
Closing date: Sunday 5th January 2025, 11pm
Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Wokingham is an equal opportunities employer.
SEND Casework Assistant employer: Wokingham Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Wokingham Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land SEND Casework Assistant
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice 2015. Understanding this legislation will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during any interviews.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND field. Attend local workshops or seminars related to special educational needs, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may benefit your application.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by thinking about scenarios where you've dealt with vulnerable individuals or complex cases. Being able to share specific examples will showcase your experience and suitability for the role.
β¨Tip Number 4
Research Wokingham Borough Council's current initiatives and policies regarding SEND. Showing that you are informed about their work and values can set you apart from other candidates during the selection process.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Casework Assistant
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the SEND Casework Assistant position. Familiarise yourself with the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice 2015 and related legislation to demonstrate your knowledge in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your understanding of SEN legislation, administrative support experience, and any previous roles that involved working with vulnerable children or young people.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Be sure to mention specific examples of your experience with casework or administrative tasks in similar settings.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the role of SEND Casework Assistant.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wokingham Borough Council
β¨Understand SEND Legislation
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice 2015 and other relevant legislation. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting vulnerable children and young people.
β¨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
As a SEND Casework Assistant, you'll be providing vital administrative support. Be prepared to discuss your experience with Microsoft Office and database systems, and provide examples of how you've effectively organised and managed tasks in previous roles.
β¨Communicate Effectively
Since you'll be the first point of contact for SEND enquiries, practice your communication skills. Think about how you can convey complex information clearly and concisely, and be ready to demonstrate your ability to liaise with various stakeholders, including families and colleagues.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and understanding of individual care plans. Prepare by thinking through potential situations you might face in the role and how you would handle them, ensuring you highlight your empathy and attention to detail.