Interim Head of Special Educational Needs (SEN)

About the role

This is a three‑month interim position based in London, offering hybrid working and operating inside IR35. The role leads the Special Educational Needs (SEN) service for a local authority, providing both strategic direction and operational oversight.

Key responsibilities

• Provide high‑quality strategic and operational leadership for the SEN service and the SEND partnership.
• Develop, communicate and deliver the SEND strategic vision, ensuring an integrated and inclusive service for children, young people and families.
• Collaborate with council departments, schools, external agencies and parents/carers to maintain high‑quality delivery through direct services and commissioning.
• Lead and manage the SEN Leadership Team and SEN Managers, fostering effective teamwork and performance.

Required profile

• In‑depth knowledge of the legislative framework and statutory guidance for SEND.
• Understanding of national policy across education, health and social care as it relates to SEND services.
• Recent experience as a Head of Service in a large local authority.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a complex, multi‑team service.
• Experience managing complex budgets with multiple funding streams.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Fixed‑term contract of three months, inside IR35.
• Opportunity to shape SEN strategy within a major local authority.