SEN Tribunal & Mediation Officer - Wakefield Council

Caritas Recruitment Limited; Wakefield; Hybrid; GBP 64,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Wakefield Council is seeking an experienced SEN Tribunal & Mediation Officer to support high-quality SEND services. You will manage a caseload of SEND tribunals and mediations, providing expert advice on complex cases and ensuring statutory responsibilities are met.

The role involves working with SEND Case Officers, families, schools and legal representatives to resolve disputes and achieve positive outcomes for children and families. Hybrid working with Wakefield offices is available.

Qualifications

• Experience representing a Local Authority or similar organisation at SEND Tribunals and mediations.
• Strong working knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice.
• Experience managing complex SEND casework.
• Excellent written communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a wider team.

Responsibilities

• Manage complex SEND tribunal and mediation cases.
• Represent the Local Authority at SEND tribunals and mediation meetings.
• Prepare high-quality evidence bundles, statements and tribunal documentation.
• Provide specialist advice and guidance on complex SEND casework.
• Support SEND Case Officers to ensure statutory timescales are met.
• Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with SEND legislation.
• Contribute to service development and the sharing of best practice.

Skills

Tribunal experience

Mediation

SEND knowledge

Stakeholder management

Regulatory compliance

Job description

SEN Tribunal & Mediation Officer

£400 per day - Hybrid Working - Wakefield Council

Caritas Recruitment is working with Wakefield Council to recruit an experienced SEN Tribunal & Mediation Officer to support the delivery of high-quality SEND services.

This is an excellent opportunity for a specialist SEND professional with strong tribunal and mediation experience to join a busy local authority team, supporting complex casework and helping to achieve positive outcomes for children, young people and their families.

The Role

You will manage a caseload of SEND tribunals and mediations, providing expert advice on complex cases and ensuring the Local Authority meets its statutory responsibilities. You will work closely with SEND Case Officers, families, schools and legal representatives to resolve disputes effectively and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage complex SEND tribunal and mediation cases
• Represent the Local Authority at SEND tribunals and mediation meetings
• Prepare high-quality evidence bundles, statements and tribunal documentation
• Provide specialist advice and guidance on complex SEND casework
• Support SEND Case Officers to ensure statutory timescales are met
• Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with SEND legislation
• Contribute to service development and the sharing of best practice

Essential Experience

• Experience representing a Local Authority or similar organisation at SEND Tribunals and mediations
• Strong working knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice
• Experience managing complex SEND casework
• Excellent written communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a wider team

Desirable Experience

• Experience mentoring or supporting SEND Case Officers
• Previous experience working within a Local Authority SEND service

Working Arrangements

• Hybrid working with attendance at Wakefield offices and meetings as required
• One day per week in the office preferred
• Fully remote working may be considered for highly experienced candidates
• Interviews are likely to be held via Microsoft Teams

Rate: £400 per day
Location: Wakefield (Hybrid)
Start Date: ASAP

If you're an experienced SEND Tribunal professional looking for your next contract opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.