SEND Transport Advisor
Fixed Term until 31/03/2028
37 hours per week during term time plus 10 days
Hybrid working
ROLE OF THE JOB
To provide advice, information and support to parents of children with SEND regarding home‑to‑school transport options:
* Advise parents and carers on available home‑to‑school transport options.
* Support families with initial transport applications and during EHCP reviews.
* Work with the Passenger Transport Team to assess individual needs and recommend appropriate transport solutions.
* Work with parents, carers and education settings to create a pipeline of suitable trainees for Northumberland County Councils Independent Travel Training team, contributing to Preparation for Adulthood.
* Work with schools, SEND teams, Inclusion Services and NIES to provide the information required for informed transport decisions.
* Contribute to drafting and reviewing documents, guidance and policy related to home‑to‑school transport.
* Maintain accurate case notes and records of communication with families, schools and professionals.
* Flag safeguarding concerns to Children's Social Care, particularly where transport issues impact educational access.
REQUIREMENTS OF THE JOB
* Recognised qualification in Education, Social Work or Teaching at Level 3 or above (or significant and demonstrable relevant experience).
* Strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice, Children & Families Act, DfE Home to School Travel guidance, and Northumberland's Local Offer.
* Proven experience working with vulnerable children and young people with additional needs, including supporting and advising parents.
* Experience dealing with challenging behaviour and emotionally demanding situations involving children, young people and families.
* Ability to manage time effectively, prioritise tasks and meet deadlines under pressure.
* Confident in using computer‑based information systems and Microsoft Office applications.
* Demonstrates tact, diplomacy, sensitivity and professionalism, especially in stressful situations, with the ability to negotiate and advocate effectively.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. If you wish to notify us of your eligibility for this scheme, please email hrrecruitment@northumberland.gov.uk or ring 01670 623930 with your name and the job title you have applied for, and one of the recruitment team will ensure this is factored into the shortlisting process and kept anonymous.
Alternative application format: British Sign Language; Text relay service for those with speech difficulties or hearing loss.
For an informal discussion about the role please contact Jill Atkinson at Jill.Atkinson@northumberland.gov.uk.
Further information: This is a full‑time position but applications on a secondment or part‑time basis would be considered for the right applicant.
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