SEND Officer

Central Bedfordshire Council is seeking SEND Officers to join the Education, Health and Care (EHC) Team within the Children and Families Directorate. The successful candidate will have proven experience working within the SEND Code of Practice, a sound understanding of SEND legislation and procedures, and experience working directly with children and young people with SEND. 

SEND Officers are a key part of a supportive and established team, playing a central role in ensuring effective service delivery. In this role, you will manage caseloads, including annual reviews and amendments, while working closely with Senior SEND Officers to ensure strong oversight and high-quality practice. This position also offers valuable opportunities for career progression and access to accredited training to support ongoing professional development. 

Main Duties 

• Management of the monitoring and review of existing EHCPs, including amending and issuing EHCPs following a review and attending review meetings in complex cases.

• Oversight of the phase transfer process for pupils commencing the next stage of education.

• Ensuring accurate data and record keeping.

• Providing advice to schools, parents and professionals regarding statutory processes.

• Consulting with schools and supporting school admissions for pupils with an EHCP.

• Attending meetings and Local Authority Panels as required.

• Supporting and attending events and training regarding statutory processes for professionals and parents.

• Representing the SEND team as part of the wider Children’s Services Team.

As a SEND Officer You Will: 

• Have strong interpersonal skills.

• Maintain positive relationships with colleagues, families and professionals.

• Have strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise work to meet legal deadlines.

• Be a problem solver.

• Be able to make fair informed decisions from evidence-based assessments.

• Be a Champion of SEND.

Essential Requirements 

Please note that before applying, it is essential that you have: 

• A strong background and good knowledge of SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).

• A clear understanding of relevant legislation, including the SEND Code of Practice 2015 and the Children and Families Act 2014.

• A working knowledge of the annual review process.

These are fundamental requirements for the role. Please ensure this information is clearly demonstrated in your application. 

About the EHC Team 

The EHC Team is an exciting, fast-paced and vibrant team. It’s a great time to join us – we pride ourselves on being a highly performing workforce which embraces a continual learning and developing culture. 

The successful applicant will have sound proven knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and SEND legislation and procedures, as well as a good understanding of the statutory EHC Needs process, including writing, reviewing and amending Education, Health and Care Plans in accordance with statutory guidance. 

Candidates will be expected to work in close collaboration with children, young people and their families, schools and setting staff, and other professionals in education, health and social care. Excellent communication skills are essential for this role. You will have a commitment to ensuring children and young people achieve positive outcomes in line with their aspirations and are supported to move successfully into adulthood. 

The EHC Team is responsible for carrying out statutory duties and processes linked to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for children and young people with SEND aged 0–25. The team works with children, young people, parents and professionals to co-produce education, health and care plans and agree provision and educational placement.