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Senior SEND Officer

Derbyshire County Council

Job Description

About Us: At Derbyshire County Council, we are dedicated to supporting our diverse communities and ensuring that every child and young person has the opportunity to thrive. Our commitment to inclusive education and the wellbeing of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is at the heart of our mission.

The Role: We are seeking a passionate and experienced Senior SEND Officer to join our Schools and Learning team. In this pivotal role, you will manage a caseload of children and young people with SEND, ensuring their needs are assessed and met, and positive outcomes are achieved. You will work closely with schools, colleges, and various partners to support and advocate for the needs of children and young people with SEND. We welcome applicants who are interested in part time and full-time hours.

Your key responsibilities will include managing an allocated caseload of young people with SEND, completing assessments of need, attending annual reviews and processing appeals. You will develop effective professional relationships with parents, carers, and associated professionals to identify and meet the needs of children and young people with SEND. Liaising with other professionals to ensure appropriate placement and support for children and young people with SEND is also a crucial part of the role. Additionally, you will prepare and write high-quality Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans, focusing on outcomes and using person-centred approaches. Participation in multi-agency meetings and annual reviews, amending EHC plans as necessary, and providing professional support and advice to stakeholders and partners are also essential duties. Keeping up to date with SEND legislation, case law, and best practices is vital.

Why Join Us: This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND in Derbyshire. You will be part of a supportive and dynamic team, dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for our community.

Enjoy being a part of our team with benefits such as:

  • Local Government Pension Scheme
  • Flexi time, allowing up to an additional 2 days of leave per month
  • Derbyshire Rewards - Discounts from high street retailers and more
  • Generous annual leave and flexi time scheme
  • Travel expenses
  • Discounts on leisure centre memberships
  • Free car parking at most sites
  • In-house counselling service
  • Occupational Health service
  • Access to sessions with a trained physiotherapist
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Various Employee Networks championing inclusivity across the council

To apply, please submit your CV along with a supporting statement, which should align with the job profile and outline your relevant experiences and skills.

For any queries prior to applying please email [email protected]

Provisional Interview Date: 27 January 2024

Due to this post having access to children and/or vulnerable adults, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided. Click here to see our policy on criminal background checks.

Good luck with your application