Assessment and Reviewing Officer

Join us on our mission to improve the lives of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in Somerset. We are looking for a motivated and organised Assessment and Reviewing Officer (ARO) to join our Statutory SEND team, supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). With inclusion at the heart of the service, we support children and young people with Education Health Care Plans. You will manage a caseload of children and young people, ensuring high-quality plans are produced, reviewed, and maintained in line with legal requirements.What will I be doing? As an Assessment and Reviewing Officer you will ensure children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) receive high-quality, outcome-focused EHC assessments and annual reviews within statutory timescales. Acting as the key point of contact for families, education settings and professionals, the role coordinates multi-agency input and delivers accurate, person-centred EHC plans that reflect each child or young person's needs and aspirations. You will manage your own caseload, maintain strong relationships with families and partners, and supports statutory processes including mediation and tribunal work, helping Somerset Council meet its duties and deliver consistently high standards for SEND services How You'll Make a Difference

• Coordinate outcome-focused EHCP assessments and reviews within statutory timescales.
• Act as a single point of contact for families, settings and professionals.
• Work collaboratively across education, health and social care services.
• Produce clear, person-centred plans and maintain accurate case records.
• Support mediation, tribunal preparation and service improvement.
• Ensure compliance with SEND legislation and safeguarding procedures.
  
  Relevant professional qualification and ongoing development
• Knowledge of SEND legislation, EHCPs and person-centred planning
• Experience of multi-agency working and leading meetings
• Ability to assess risk and safeguard vulnerable children and young people
• Skilled in producing high-quality, outcome-focused plans
• Confident using IT systems and databases
• Strong organisational, prioritisation and time-management skills
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills with children, families and professionals
  
  We are happy to consider flexible working patterns - we work hard to sustain a good work-life balance and are passionate about maintaining a positive and supportive working culture.
• This role offers hybrid working, allowing you to work either from home or from our offices at County Hall, Taunton. There is an expectation that you will be in the office a minimum of two days a week. (You will be expected to be in the office for your induction period.)
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for VISA sponsorship.

At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.
• Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.