Deputy Area Inclusion Lead (Assessments)

Ackerman Pierce Ltd; Maidstone; Hybrid; GBP 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading SEND service provider in Maidstone is seeking an experienced Deputy Area Inclusion Lead to oversee the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment process. You will ensure compliance with statutory requirements and collaborate with multi-agency professionals. The ideal candidate must have strong knowledge of SEND processes and excellent leadership skills. This role offers a hybrid working model, requiring office attendance three days a week.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of the statutory SEND assessment process and effective EHCP.
• Experience in supporting or managing SEND statutory processes.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Support the Team Manager in the statutory 20-week EHCNA process.
• Ensure EHCPs are outcome-focused and person-centred.
• Promote effective use of the SEND case management system.

Skills

Knowledge of SEND assessment process

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Collaborative approach

Job description

Deputy Area Inclusion Lead (Assessment Hub - EHCNA) — Permanent Position | Salary: £37,732 - £43,695 per annum. Hybrid Working | Office Attendance Required 3 Days per Week | Kent

Overview

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Deputy Area Inclusion Lead (Assessment Hub - EHCNA) to join our dedicated SEND service. In this leadership role, you will support the Team Manager in overseeing the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) process, ensuring statutory timelines are met and that high-quality Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are delivered in line with the SEND Code of Practice and organisational standards.

Responsibilities

• Support the Team Manager in delivering the statutory 20-week EHCNA process across all phases, from Early Years to Post-16.
• Ensure EHCPs are outcome-focused, person-centred, and reflect the aspirations of children and young people.
• Promote effective use of the SEND case management system, ensuring accurate and timely updates.
• Provide quality assurance for EHCPs, supporting staff to maintain high standards of practice.
• Work collaboratively with multi-agency professionals to ensure outcomes are clearly identified and achieved.
• Assist with monitoring assessment timelines and compliance with statutory requirements.
• Support staff development through training, supervision, and case discussions.
• Offer expert advice to colleagues, families, and partner agencies on SEND processes and legislation.
• Enhance collaboration across services to improve inclusion and outcomes for children and young people.
• Manage a small caseload of complex cases, applying expertise to secure positive outcomes.

About You

• Strong knowledge of the statutory SEND assessment process and what constitutes an effective EHCP.
• Experience in supporting or managing SEND statutory processes.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to inclusive practices.
• In-depth understanding of the SEND Code of Practice (2015) and relevant legislation.

Requirements

• Local Authority experience is essential.
• Ability to work in a hybrid model, attending the office 3 days per week.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality, inclusive SEND services.