Job Description:

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.