Children's SEND Officer - Central Bedfordshire

Caritas Recruitment; Shefford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Caritas Recruitment Limited is seeking a dedicated Children's SEND Officer to support children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) to achieve positive educational and personal outcomes. The role involves coordinating Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments, plans, amendments and annual reviews, and working with families, schools and health professionals.

You will prepare accurate, legally compliant documentation, monitor timescales, maintain case

Qualifications

• Experience of working with children, young people and families in education, social care or health settings.
• Strong understanding of SEND legislation, statutory guidance and person-centred planning.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments, plans, amendments and annual reviews.
• Prepare accurate, legally compliant documentation and maintain detailed case records; contribute to decision-making.

Skills

SEND legislation understanding

Job description

We are seeking a dedicated Children's SEND Officer to support children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) to achieve positive educational and personal outcomes. This is an opportunity to play a key role in coordinating statutory processes and ensuring that children, young people and their families receive timely, person-centred support.

You will manage a caseload of children and young people with SEND, coordinating Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments, plans, amendments and annual reviews. You will work closely with families, schools, early years settings, colleges, health professionals, social care teams and other partner agencies to gather information, identify needs and ensure appropriate provision is arranged and reviewed.

The role will involve preparing clear, accurate and legally compliant documentation, monitoring timescales, maintaining detailed case records and contributing to effective decision-making. You will explain processes and entitlements in an accessible way, provide constructive advice, and help resolve concerns professionally and sensitively. You will also contribute to improving practice, promoting inclusion and supporting the effective use of resources.

The successful candidate will have experience of working with children, young people and families in an education, social care, health or related setting, together with a sound understanding of SEND legislation, statutory guidance and person-centred planning. You will be confident managing competing priorities, meeting deadlines and working independently while contributing positively to a multi-disciplinary team.

Excellent communication, negotiation and organisational skills are essential, as is the ability to build trusted relationships with a wide range of people. You should be able to analyse information, make balanced recommendations and produce accurate written work. A commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and improving outcomes for children and young people is vital.

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to families while contributing to a coordinated, inclusive and high-quality SEND service.