Our local authority client has a 3-month contract vacancy (with the possibility of extension) for the role of HEAD OF SEND, details as follows

Job Purpose

• To fulfil and maintain a professional, responsive strategic SEND service across the Local Authority for all internal and external stakeholders and lead the aligned SEND teams providing support to them.
• To develop and lead the councils SEND strategy in line with the council plan, partnering with the wider agencies, government bodies, senior leaders, key stakeholders and partners.
• To manage the High Needs Block budget areas, negotiating and managing external frameworks, partners and suppliers in line with agreed contract terms and framework agreements in order to deliver the councils strategic ambitions and value for money priority.

Responsibilities

• To lead on the development and implementation of specific SEND initiatives, such as placement commissioning, EHCP review and delivery, cultural change, leadership and management development and other key projects agreed by the Assistant Director Education and Learning.
• To lead the council's strategic approach to SEND provision.
• To ensure that the SEN Code of Practice requirements delivered and provided by the team are professional, ethical and aligned with the associated professional standards for confidentiality, data management and equal opportunities and is informed by best practice and professional standards.
• To lead on strategic SEND support across directorates and contribute with professional expertise and input to meetings and activities including input to policy development, strategic plans and multi-agency issues.
• Oversee and support the SEND teams to coach and build the capability of managers to proactively drive high performance.
• To lead the stakeholder engagement agenda ensuring effective data gather, interpretation and action of multi agencies and professionals in response to intelligence and issues raised.
• To lead on the SEND activities required to support complex transformation programmes maintaining the principles of effective organisational design in developing future services in line with the council's ambitions.
• To be responsible for ensuring appropriate advice and guidance is accessible, relevant and in place for all stakeholders and that there is regular monitoring and engagement across multi agencies to ensure aligned and cohesive processes.

Essential Requirements

• Level 5 Diploma or equivalent, higher degree, and specialist/advanced level professional qualifications
• Demonstrate success as an educational leader
• Good understanding of the SEN Code of Practice 2014
• Knowledge of legislation which will enable the post holder to provide accurate advice and challenge
• Experience of preparing and representing cases at SEND tribunals.
• Knowledge and understanding of the primary phase and current National and Local agendas relating to EYFS- KS5
• Proven ability to analyse data and present in a meaningful way to inform decision making and to complete DfE returns
• Experience of managing substantial budgets £12-15m and ensuring value for money for services procured.

If you have the necessary experience and qualifications to fulfill this role, please submit your CV ASAP.