Description
Are you an outstanding manager with expertise in mental health support for children and young people? If so we have an exciting new opportunity working with Schools and Colleges in the east of the county.
East Sussex County Council is seeking an experienced and dynamic Clinical Lead to join our Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs), working within the Education Division. This pivotal role offers an exciting opportunity to shape the early intervention landscape for children and young people with mild to moderate mental health needs across Hastings, Rye, and Rother.
As part of the MHST management team, you will hold strategic and operational responsibility for clinical practice, overseeing the delivery of psychological interventions in schools and colleges. Working closely with the Mental Health in Education Service Manager and Team Manager West, you will lead a large multi-disciplinary team, ensure high-quality clinical governance, and strengthen partnerships with NHS and local services. This is a leadership role requiring vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people.
You will also act as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), supporting safeguarding arrangements for a year-round service and contributing to the broader transformation of emotional wellbeing provision across education settings.
We are looking for a confident leader who brings:
* A core professional qualification in mental health (e.g. Nursing, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Educational Psychology, CBT) and registration with the relevant regulatory body.
* Proven leadership experience in mental health settings, with the ability to inspire and guide clinical teams.
* Understanding of early intervention models, safeguarding, performance frameworks, and low-intensity psychological therapies.
* The ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery, managing complex partnerships and service demands.
* Experience of working directly with children and families, and a passion for improving outcomes for young people.
* Strong skills in managing performance, professional development, governance, and safeguarding processes.
* A valid driving licence or ability to meet travel requirements across East Sussex.
To apply, please click the apply now button to submit your CV and a Supporting Statement outlining your interest in the role and how your experience meets the key criteria listed in the job description. You may wish to include examples of how you've led clinical teams, contributed to service development, or supported children and young people with mental health needs.
Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.
For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page.
Interviews will be held in person on Friday 30th January 2026 at County Hall, Lewes. The interview panel will include representatives from both Education and Health services. Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.
This is a unique opportunity to lead transformative change within a nationally significant programme, driving how mental health is understood and supported in schools. As a key member of a forward-thinking, collaborative leadership team, you will help to influence early intervention strategy across a diverse and dynamic region.
We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
Contact Catherine Dooley, Safeguarding and Wellbeing Strategic Lead for enquiries about the role by emailing
For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex