Head of SEND

Over the last several years Hull has transformed into a nationally recognised and celebrated city, while at the same time the council has responded to the many challenges faced by the public sector.  The City of Culture status has attracted new investment which is improving the prospects for the city and its residents.  Moving forward, we are determined that our most vulnerable children and young people can access the support they need to ensure they can develop and thrive.  To help us fulfil our ambitions we are looking to recruit an inspirational senior leader to manage SEND services and make a positive difference for children, young people and their families.

The role reports to the Assistant Director for Learning and Skills and manages a dedicated team of about 100 people across three areas:  SEND assessment and reviewing; educational psychology; and specialist teaching.  It also covers the IPASS service.  We have good relationships with schools and academies, are about to open new provision in mainstream schools, and are making great strides in terms of service improvement - but we know we have more to do.   Working with the SEND improvement board, the new postholder will need to further develop SEND sufficiency, manage the high needs budget effectively, and maintain our grip on high quality service delivery. 

Candidates will need senior SEND experience in a local authority setting, partnership skills, and ideally some understanding of both the social care and education agendas, as well as a track record in improving SEND services.  Above all, you will have a relentless determination to improve the life chances of children and young people in Hull.

For more information please contact our advising consultants at GatenbySanderson Marcia Williams (020 7426 3374) or Luke Judd (0113 205 6077).

Closing date: 5th August 2019