Back to Job Search
New

SEND Transformation Lead

Job Description

SEND Transformation Lead - Sutton Council (12-18 Month Contract)

Location: Sutton (Hybrid)

Role Overview:
Lead the development and delivery of Priority 5 of Sutton Council's SEND and AP Strategy: creating a financially sustainable DSG management plan. Collaborate with seconded and non-seconded staff, stakeholders (e.g., Sutton SEND Forum), and others to focus on three key areas: Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP), Specialist Commissioning, and Funding Arrangements.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP):
  • Develop guidance and practices to address SEND needs earlier, reducing EHCNA numbers.
  • Establish OAP guidance for Early Years, mainstream primary and secondary, and enhanced provision.
  • Embed curriculum adaptations for Autism and SEMH needs.
  • Create a primary and secondary IMT model to align with inclusion metrics.
  • Design inclusive pathways with functional life skills alongside the National Curriculum.
  • Launch Early Years and Year 6-7 Support Plans with targeted funding.
  1. Specialist Commissioning:
  • Work with Pupil Based Commissioning to review and develop a 5-year SEND strategy.
  • Increase sufficiency of in-borough specialist provision, reducing reliance on external placements.
  • Analyze specialist provision profiles and support discussions on mainstream inclusion.
  • Evaluate and redefine the role of resource bases in alignment with long-term inclusion goals.
  • Strengthen SEMH provision through reintegration, outreach, and high-quality support from specialist providers.
  1. Funding Arrangements:
  • Review decision-making and cost-control processes to prioritize resources effectively.
  • Enhance the Annual Review process, providing training for schools and parents on plan cessation and provision reduction.
  • Evaluate high-cost placements and establish joint working with Health and Social Care.
  • Revise Sutton Top Ups and consider alternative funding models, potentially delegating funding to clusters and increasing universal-level professional services.
  • Assess and optimize SENCO clusters' operations.

Main Accountabilities:

  • Develop and deliver a comprehensive SEND transformation program.
  • Manage risks, dependencies, and challenges effectively.
  • Drive inclusive education, health, and social care provision improvements.
  • Build strong relationships with stakeholders to ensure engagement and successful change delivery.

Person Specification:

  • Degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional qualification.
  • Extensive knowledge and experience in SEND systems and Local Authority environments.
  • Proven expertise in managing complex SEND transformation programs.
  • Strong understanding of local authority roles, efficiency agendas, and value-for-money practices.
  • Advanced analytical, leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence and lead cultural change in complex systems.

If you are interested in this role or want further discussion, please contact Lewis O'Donnell either via email: lewis.odonnell@servicecare.org.uk or tel: 01772208962. Alternatively, if you have any friend or colleagues that might be interested, please feel free to refer them as we a have a referral scheme in place of up to £250.