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.

Are you passionate about transforming the experiences and outcomes of autistic children and young people? Do you thrive on empowering schools, educators, and families to create truly inclusive environments? Are you ready to take the next step into leadership while keeping your practice rooted in what matters most children?

If so, we want you to join our dynamic Specialist Teaching Service!

We are seeking an exceptional Specialist Autism Advisory Teacher to join our expanding team of SEND professionals. This is an exciting opportunity to work across our diverse local authority area, supporting schools and settings to confidently meet the needs of complex autistic learners.

In this hybrid role, you will combine your expertise in Autism and other associated SEND needs with strategic leadership responsibilities, including line management, supervision, and shaping the future of our service.

You will also need to:

✨ Deliver high-quality specialist advice, modelling, and coaching to schools and settings
✨ Support early identification, assessment, and intervention for autistic children and young people
✨ Develop and deliver engaging CPD, including whole-school training and targeted professional development
✨ Work collaboratively with families, schools, multidisciplinary teams, and wider LA services
✨ Use data and evidence-based approaches to influence practice and drive improvements
✨ Lead, mentor, and inspire a small team of support staff developing confidence, consistency, and excellence
✨ Play an active role in shaping strategic SEND priorities across the city

No two days will be the same you’ll be working in responsive, creative ways to open doors for learners with complex needs across mainstream schools in Southend.

To be successful in this role, you will need to have:

✔ Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

✔ Qualified to degree standard or equivalent.

✔ SENCO/ SEND qualification, or equivalent strategic management qualification

✔ Specialist experience and deep knowledge of Autism Spectrum Conditions
✔ A track record of delivering outstanding inclusive practice in mainstream or special settings
✔ Experience supporting schools and families with practical strategies and curriculum adaptations
✔ Strong communication, coaching, and training skills
✔ Leadership experience -The confidence to lead others whether through supervision, mentoring, or team development
✔ A commitment to partnership working, problem-solving, and improving outcomes for children with SEND

Above all, you’ll be motivated by a belief in equity, inclusion, and the potential of every child.

🌟 Salary up to £64,009 ( Main scale 6+ 1 SEN point + TLR 1 + UPS respected).

💡 A highly supportive, progressive SEND team of over 25 specialist staff covering all areas of SEND
🌍 Opportunities to work across a vibrant and diverse local area
📚 Ongoing CPD, professional supervision, and leadership development
🤝 Collaborative working with passionate SEND practitioners, educational psychologists, therapists, and schools
🚗 Flexible working approaches to help you thrive in your role
✨ The chance to make a measurable impact on children, young people, and whole-school practice

If you’re an inspiring, proactive specialist who is ready to influence practice at a system level and you’re excited by the opportunity to develop your own leadership skills we’d love to hear from you. Come and help shape an inclusive future where autistic / complex needs children and young people can flourish.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV and a cover letter (no more than two sides) outlining your suitability for the role.

Closing date:  Friday 12^th December

Interviews:  Wednesday 17^th December

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please 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.

Southend-on-Sea City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.