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.