SEND Operational Lead

Hackney, United Kingdom

In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints. Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions.

Job Description 5-6 months contract Role with a local authority Summary

• The SEND Operations Lead is a pivotal role within a local authority, tasked with leading and managing the delivery of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services. This position ensures compliance with statutory responsibilities under the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice. The role involves overseeing Education, Health and Care (EHC) processes, SEND provision, placements, and operational performance to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive high-quality support and achieve positive outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the SEND service.
• Oversee the delivery of Education, Health and Care Needs Assessments and EHC Plans within statutory timescales.
• Ensure children and young people with SEND have appropriate educational placements that meet their identified needs.
• Drive continuous improvement across SEND processes, systems, and service delivery.
• Monitor service performance and implement strategies to improve quality, efficiency, and compliance.
• Ensure EHC Plans are of a high standard and focused on achieving positive outcomes for children and young people.
• Manage complaints, enquiries, statutory returns, and information requests within required timescales.
• Use data and performance information to inform decision-making and service development.

Requirements Essential Experience Required

• Significant senior leadership experience within SEND services.
• Proven experience managing statutory SEND processes and EHC assessments.
• Experience leading and developing multi-disciplinary teams.

Essential Qualifications Required

• Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience within SEND.
• Evidence of continuing professional development relevant to SEND, education, leadership, or public sector services.
• Enhanced DBS clearance.

Additional Information

• Enhanced DBS
• We work on a bi-weekly schedule