Head of SEND
Location: Hybrid / Flexible (Local Authority setting)
Salary: £63,280 – £75,805 allowance
Contract: Permanent
About the Role
A South East local authority is seeking an experienced and credible senior leader to head up its Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) service during a key period of reform and transformation.
This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for shaping and delivering statutory SEND services, driving improvement, and ensuring high-quality outcomes for children and young people aged 0–25.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the strategic direction and operational delivery of SEND services
* Ensure statutory duties are met consistently, accurately, and on time
* Oversee tribunals, complaints, and complex casework functions
* Drive service improvement, performance management, and quality assurance
* Lead and strengthen multi-agency partnership working across education, health, and care
* Improve early identification, intervention, and inclusive practice
* Ensure services are child-centred, outcome-focused, and evidence-led
* Work closely with senior leaders, schools, and elected members
About You We are looking for a resilient, values-driven leader with:
* Significant senior leadership experience within SEND, education, or children’s services
* Strong knowledge of SEND legislation and statutory frameworks
* Proven experience leading service improvement in complex systems
* Ability to influence senior stakeholders and elected members
* Strong analytical and data-led decision-making skills
* A commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people
What’s on Offer
* A senior strategic leadership role with real influence
* Opportunity to lead meaningful system-wide change
* Flexible working arrangements
* Supportive leadership environment focused on improvement and collaboration
This is a rare opportunity to shape SEND services at a critical time of national and local reform, with direct impact on the lives of children, young people, and families.
Applications are welcomed from experienced leaders ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role.