Clinical Lead for Special School Nursing | Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust

Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust; Lancing; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A community healthcare provider in West Sussex is seeking a Clinical Lead for their Special School Nursing team. This role involves providing advanced clinical expertise, collaborating with various stakeholders, and leading service improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess relevant clinical qualifications and have a strong background in SEND environments. The position supports flexible working options and emphasizes professional development.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Excellent training opportunities

Living Wage Employer

Workplace nurseries

Qualifications

• Expertise in clinical protocols related to child health.
• Experience with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) environments.
• Strong training and mentorship skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced clinical expertise and guidance to Special School Nurses.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure quality care for children and young people.
• Develop clinical protocols and participate in governance activities.

Skills

Clinical assessment

Leadership

Safeguarding

Communication

Education

Relevant clinical qualifications

Job description

This clinical leadership role within Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust's Children & Young People's Community Nursing Service provides expert guidance for Special School Nursing across identified SEND schools.

The post holder will offer advanced clinical expertise, drive practice development, support audit and research, and lead service improvement projects locally and Trust-wide. They will work with senior nurses to develop and standardise policy and practice in line with national and Trust standards.

They will collaborate strategically with Local Authorities and headteachers to ensure inclusive access to education for CYP with SEND, ensuring nursing needs are reflected in EHCPs.

The Clinical Lead will support Special School Nurses to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care for CYP on the SEND school register. Proficient in clinical assessment and interventions, they will adapt flexibly to meet the needs of CYP and families.

Working closely with health, education, statutory, and third-sector partners, they will also provide safeguarding advice and collaborate with the School Safeguarding Team. Education, training, and competency assessments for staff, students, families, and CYP will be a key part of the role. Prescribing may be included where qualified.

The role is responsible for delivering high-quality nursing care, support, and advice to children and young people (CYP) accessing SEND Schools in West Sussex and Brighton & Hove. Provides leadership and guidance to staff, supporting professional development and clinical best practice. Maintains strong communication with stakeholders and families to ensure seamless, safe, and effective care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develops and reviews clinical protocols and SOPs to support safe practice.
• Builds team expertise, ensuring necessary clinical skills are maintained.
• Delivers teaching on clinical procedures, equipment, and treatment plans to school and education staff.
• Ensures accurate documentation of care and acts as a role model and expert resource in Special School Nursing.
• Collaborates with senior leaders to evolve services based on need and best practice, aligned with SCFT governance.
• Participates in local and national groups to develop clinical standards and promote effective transitions to adult services.

Why work for us?

• Positive 2024 NHS Staff Survey results, highlighting compassionate leadership and wellbeing.
• Varied environments: community hospitals, patients’ homes, and bases across Sussex.
• Flexible working options: part-time, flexi-time, annualised hours, and flexi-retirement.
• Excellent training, development, and research opportunities.
• Accredited Living Wage Employer, we ensure fair pay for all our staff.
• Cost-effective workplace nurseries in Crawley, Hove, and Brighton.
• Active EMBRACE, Disability & Wellbeing, LGBTQIA+, and Religion & Belief networks.
• Level 3 Disability Confident Leader and Veteran Aware Trust.

We embrace diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds, particularly from ethnically diverse, disabled, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. We aim to create an inclusive environment and support reasonable adjustments during recruitment.

This post may close early if sufficient applications are received.

Note: Please see the attached job description and person specification for full details.