Description
We are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and would encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all.
The starting salary for this position is £30,738 - £33,194 per annum based on a 36 hour working week, across 39 weeks per year, pro-rata for part-time hours.
We are excited to be hiring a number of
Senior Specialist Support Workers
to join our fantastic Specialist Early Education Service (SEES), which is part of Surrey's Educational Psychology Service (EPS).
The opportunities on offer are as follows: South East - Tandridge, Reigate and Banstead and Mole Valley - Full-time (36 hours per week over 39 weeks per year), permanent position North West - Woking, Runnymede and Surrey Heath - Part-time (14.40 hours per week over 39 weeks per year), permanent position North East - Spelthorne, Sunbury, Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell - Full-time (36 hours per week over 39 weeks per year), permanent position
Rewards and Benefits An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year Paternity, adoption and dependents leave A generous local government salary related pension Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping and many more 2 paid volunteering days per year Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources A strong induction programme, comprehensive training opportunities and professional supervision
About the Role
The Specialist Early Education Service (SEES) delivers a range of specialist early education programmes such as Portage, Positive Play Programme, Communication and Play Programme and Local Early Autism Programme. All SEES programmes draw on evidence-based strategies that are widely recognised as good practice for supporting the learning of children with developmental needs. Using a play-based approach children's development is assessed and areas of need identified. We work closely with parents/carers and other professionals to provide them with the confidence and knowledge to support children to make progress.
We work with families, both in their homes and in the child's early years setting, to support them and practitioners, with pre-school children (aged 0 - 5 years) with a variety of developmental needs. These children have complex medical, physical and learning needs, some with significant development needs, including social communication difficulties and autism.
The Senior Specialist Support Worker is a highly varied role, which has significant social impact. You'll be regularly involved in the following: Supporting the induction of new staff and delivering ongoing support and advice to less experienced members of the team Providing expertise in the use of specialist assessment frameworks such as SCERTS Confidently delivering specialist training programmes such Portage or be willing to develop these skills to a high standard Working with children presenting with the most complex needs Working alongside the other Senior SSWs and Teaching Leads Collation and analysis of SEES area referral and progress Data Working directly with children, families and pre-school staff in the home, pre-school and community settings Being responsible for children's assessment, planning, implementation, and review of all individualised intervention programmes Preparing resources and implementing strategies to support children's learning
Although there is no direct line management responsibility in this role, you will be responsible for providing ongoing support and advice to new and less experienced members of the team.
The Specialist Early Education Service (SEES) consist of supportive team colleagues where contributions are welcomed and valued.
Feedback from parents, carers, educational settings and other professionals have indicated high levels of impact with regards to children's progress and families' knowledge and wellbeing.
Shortlisting Criteria
To be considered for shortlisting for this position, your CV and personal statement will clearly evidence the following: Advanced vocational qualification at level 4, or considerable relevant experience Extensive experience of working with children with a range of severe and complex needs Knowledge of the theory and practice of child development and learning, including suitable activities for encouraging children's physical emotional, communication and social development Expertise in the use of appropriate observation and assessment tools Knowledge of relevant SEN legislation and local guidance Willingness to undertake relevant training and confidence in implementing new learning High level of skill and experience of working with families and children with complex needs
Surrey has both urban and rural areas, and as part of this role you will be expected to have a valid driving licence to drive in the UK, access to a vehicle and be willing to travel across a wide geographical area. Reasonable adjustments where needed will be made for successful applicants who have a disability or long term health condition to enable them to fulfil the requirements of the job.
Contact Us
Please contact us for any questions relating to the role. This could be to discuss flexible working requests, transferable skills or any barriers to employment. For an informal discussion please contact SEES Area Leads: NE Area: Lisa Trend / Kathryn Stillwell NW Area: Sara Crane SE Area: Sian Armstong
The job advert closes at 23:59 on 20.07.2025 with interviews to follow.
We look forward to receiving your application, please click on the apply online button below to submit.
An enhanced DBS 'Disclosure and Barring Service' check for regulated activity (formerly known as CRB) and the Children's and Adults' Barred List checks will be required for this role.
Local Government Reorganisation
Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation which will allow us to implement the Government led policy of devolution, which is all about giving more powers to local areas.
Currently, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council, all responsible for different services. All these councils will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils which will come into effect in April 2027. At this point, this role will be transferred, with all existing terms and conditions intact into one of the new unitary councils.
Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents! Please see more information here: Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation - Surrey County Council.
Our Values
Our values are as important as our abilities and shape who we are as an organisation. Discover more about our values.
Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description. Our Life at Surrey handbook also provides insights of the culture at Surrey and how as a valued employee, you can help shape our Council.
Our Commitment
Surrey County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants where: The candidate has evidenced the minimum criteria for the role through their application The candidate has chosen to share that they have a disability on the application form
Our application form and onboarding process will provide an opportunity to request any reasonable adjustments for the interview and/or the role.
We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all underrepresented group
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