DBS0909 SEND Officer

The SEND Support Service is responsible for Education Health and Care Needs Assessments and the review of Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for children and young people in North Tyneside.

SEND Officers are responsible for co-ordinating Education Health and Care Needs Assessments, and managing the Education Heath and Care Plan process including attending and processing annual reviews. The successful applicants must have a sound knowledge and understanding of the SEND Code of Practice (2015). A professional qualification demonstrating an ability to complete assessments is essential and experience of writing and / or reviewing EHCPs is desirable.

The role also requires excellent written and verbal communication skills and the resilience to deal with complex and challenging situations. You will be required to work proactively with parents, young people, schools and other relevant professionals in order to co-ordinate assessments and reviews within timescales. You may also be required to prepare paperwork and witnesses for mediation and tribunals and may eventually represent the Local Authority in these.

You will be part of an enthusiastic and committed team of SEND officers in one of our four teams. Each team leading on either new assessments, annual reviews (children in 0- year 4), annual reviews (children in year 5- year 8) and preparation for adulthood team (year 9 and onwards).

This is an exciting time to join the service which over recent years has more than doubled in size and continues to review and update its operating model. The successful candidate will join a dynamic and supportive staff group who are passionate about getting the best outcomes for children and young people.

Regular supervision will be available alongside informal support from colleagues and managers. A robust induction and training will be provided for the successful applicant.