Operational Lead SEN Assessment Team

Posted 27 August 2025
Salary 450
LocationChichester PO19 United Kingdom
Job type Contract
Sector Interim & Executive Management
ReferenceRQ1593197

Job description

3 months contract with a local authority

Job Purpose
  • To provide operational and professional leadership to the Special Educational Needs Assessment Team (SENAT), ensuring the effective delivery of statutory Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments, placement decisions, and allocation of resources for children and young people aged 0–25.

Key Duties/Accountabilities
  • Provide operational leadership across SENAT, managing six teams to deliver statutory functions in line with the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice.
  • Support the Principal Service Lead in ensuring performance targets are met, including timeliness of EHCP assessments and reviews.
  • Lead on complex casework decision-making, deputising for the Principal Service Lead when required.
  • Oversee specific areas of responsibility, such as complaints management, Ombudsman enquiries, and Freedom of Information requests.
  • Manage a team including Specialist Advisory Teachers, Special Needs Officers, Tribunal Officer, and oversee Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) and Alternative Provision (AP).
Essential Experience Required
  • Extensive management experience within the field of Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND).
  • Demonstrable experience in delivering and coordinating statutory SEND services, including EHCP processes.
  • Proven track record of managing teams and delivering a high-quality, customer-focused service.
  • Significant experience of budget management and contributing to financial decision-making on high-value spend.
Essential Qualification Required
  • Postgraduate professional qualification relevant to management or SEND (or equivalent extensive experience).
  • Chartered status of a relevant professional body (desirable) or equivalent high-level experience in SEND services.
  • Evidence of continuous professional development in education, SEND, or management.
Additional information to note
  • Working hours: 37 hours per week
  • Location: County Hall, Chichester
  • Working pattern: Full time
  • Working arrangement: Hybrid
  • This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check


Requirements

Requirements
  • Extensive management experience within the field of Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND).
  • Demonstrable experience in delivering and coordinating statutory SEND services, including EHCP processes.
  • Proven track record of managing teams and delivering a high-quality, customer-focused service.
  • Significant experience of budget management and contributing to financial decision-making on high-value spend.