Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

You will be the first point of contact for families who are seeking information, advice & support about their child's special educational needs. You will offer support & guidance in a range of ways; face to face at meetings, at support groups, at training events & workshops throughout the city & over the telephone & email. You will receive training & support to give advice about SEND law & national & local policy. A good local knowledge of Southend & our schools is desirable but not essential. You will be undertaking casework for children, young people & adults with special educational needs, with or without an EHC Plan & those who are considering applying for, or undergoing an assessment, including providing information about mediation, appeals & tribunal processes. You will be expected to work flexibly & although you will be based in the Civic Centre, you will be asked to deliver support throughout the city & to work remotely as required.

To be successful in this role, it is advantageous to have a good knowledge and understanding of the SEN code of practice 2015 and Children and Families Act 2014. You need to have knowledge of SEN processes in an educational setting or experience working within a SEND Department within a Local Authority to be considered for this role. Previous successful experience of working relationships with parents, carers, and or pupils with SEN is essential for this role. Effective communication is vital as you will be liaising with parents/carers, young people, education settings and other agencies both verbally and in writing. Although your role will be one of impartiality, it is essential that you can work closely with other services to ensure the right support is identified & the best possible outcomes achieved for all children & young people with SEND.

Please note this is a term-time / part-time role. 

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please click here

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.