Job Description

To lead and manage the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) team within the local authority, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services that meet the needs of children and young people with SEND. This role is key in promoting inclusive educational practices, improving outcomes for SEND learners, and supporting effective partnership working with families, schools, and external agencies.

1. Leadership and Management:

   • Lead and manage a team of SEND professionals, ensuring that the team provides high-quality support to children and young people with SEND.
   • Foster a culture of continuous professional development, supervision, and performance management for all team members.
   • Ensure the SEND team operates efficiently, effectively, and in line with statutory requirements, policies, and procedures.
   • Develop and maintain a clear strategic vision for SEND provision within the local authority, in collaboration with senior leadership and partners.

2. Strategic Planning and Development:

   • Contribute to the development and implementation of SEND strategy and action plans in line with national and local priorities.
   • Ensure that local authority SEND provision is inclusive, responsive, and aligned with local needs.
   • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of SEND services, identifying areas for improvement and implementing appropriate solutions.
   • Engage with local schools, academies, and settings to support the development of inclusive practices and enhance provision for SEND students.

3. Case Management and Support:

   • Oversee the development, implementation, and review of Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans, ensuring they are person-centered, timely, and in line with legislation.
   • Ensure robust multi-agency working practices to support children and young people with SEND, including collaboration with health, social care, education providers, and families.
   • Provide advice and guidance on complex SEND cases, resolving disputes and managing risks where necessary.

4. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:

   • Work closely with parents, carers, and local communities to ensure that the voice of the child and their family is central to decision-making and service delivery.
   • Build and maintain effective relationships with schools, settings, local partners, and external agencies, promoting a holistic approach to meeting SEND needs.
   • Represent the SEND team at local, regional, and national forums, contributing to the broader SEND agenda.

5. Compliance and Quality Assurance:

   • Ensure that SEND services comply with all relevant legislation, guidance, and best practice.
   • Lead on the development and implementation of quality assurance processes for SEND service delivery.
   • Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), ensuring that the service is responsive and continuously improving.

6. Budget and Resource Management:

   • Manage budgets associated with SEND provision and ensure resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to meet the needs of children and young people.
   • Lead on bidding for funding and resources to enhance SEND services as required.

7. Professional Development:

   • Stay abreast of legislative changes, national and local policies, and developments in SEND practice.
   • Ensure that all team members receive the training and development necessary to perform their roles effectively.