Head of SEND and Inclusion
23 hours ago
Chichester
service. You will lead and manage teams in the SEND and Inclusion Service, collaborating with senior colleagues across the local authority, school leaders, strategic partners, SEND Health and Social Care, parents/carers' forums, and providers for SEND. You will drive operational service improvements while meeting statutory obligations to schools and early years settings. Key responsibilities of the role include: Providing strategic leadership for Ofsted and CQC, for SEND Inspection and SEND Improvement Plan delivery. Maintaining an overview of the county's Alternative Provision, identifying potential provisions. Ensuring high-quality customer service delivery to individuals and communities. Managing compliance, FOI requests, and complaints. Developing quality and impact measures, ensuring provision meets these within budget. Managing significant financial budgets. Overseeing the High Needs Block, including funding for commissioning places, and promoting early intervention to reduce reliance on INMSS. Leading reviews to meet customer needs and reduce placements in INMSS. For more information on key skills, qualifications, and experience, please refer to the attached Job Description and mention these in your cover letter, as they will be used for shortlisting. About Us West Sussex County Council serves over 850,000 residents daily. The Education and Skills Directorate, within the Department of Children, Young People and Learning, aims to provide young people with the best start in life. The SEND & Inclusion Service supports an inclusive educational culture across West Sussex, including statutory services like EHCPs, Fair Access, and Educational Psychology. Benefits We prioritize our employees' well-being by offering a supportive, dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth, work-life balance, and rewards. A full benefits list is available on our website. How to Apply Use reference number CAFHE05929. For informal inquiries, contact Lauren Sexton, Executive Assistant. To apply, upload your CV and Cover Letter via the provided links. In your cover letter, detail your motivations, skills, and experience, referencing key skills. Include any employment gaps in your CV. Download the job description from the main advert on our website, as access may be restricted after the closing date. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. The role requires five years of references and an occupational health check. We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, veterans, and care leavers, with a guaranteed interview scheme available. About You We seek a passionate, strategic leader capable of building strong relationships with educational settings and championing the rights of children, young people, and their families. You should demonstrate credibility, integrity, and courage in decision-making. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Ability to influence, negotiate, and establish credibility with stakeholders. Strong analytical skills to use data for improving outcomes. Experience managing significant budgets and resources. Ability to recruit, manage, and motivate teams. Understanding and anticipation of customer needs. Capacity to challenge practices and innovate within frameworks. Relevant degree or postgraduate qualification in management or education. Leadership experience in schools or similar roles in local authority settings. Expertise in SEND with a proven support track record. Experience in professional development and coaching in SEND and Inclusion. #J-18808-Ljbffr