SEND Consultant

We Do Social Work; Swindon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

We Do Social Work is recruiting an experienced SEND Consultant to lead a high-profile project developing a robust SEND funding framework for schools, including testing and refining the banding model. The role involves creating a comprehensive cost library, analysing data from multiple education stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with national SEND reforms and the Schools White Paper.

Working independently, you will present findings to senior leaders and project boards, with a focus on

Qualifications

• Significant experience working within a local authority SEND service.
• Strong understanding of operational SEND practice across schools and education settings.
• Experience delivering complex consultancy, transformation or improvement projects independently.
• Proven ability to produce high-quality reports and strategic recommendations.
• Excellent analytical, financial modelling and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to explain complex information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
• In-depth understanding of statutory SEND legislation, policy and processes.
• Ability to interpret national reforms and translate them into practical local solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead testing and validation of the proposed SEND banding framework.
• Develop a transparent, evidence-based cost library to support funding decisions.
• Align framework with the Schools White Paper and wider SEND reforms.
• Produce detailed reports outlining methodology, findings and recommendations.
• Present findings to project boards, governance groups and senior leaders.
• Engage with local authority officers, SENCOs, school leaders and finance teams to gather input and support implementation.

Skills

SEND funding

Data analysis

Financial modelling

Stakeholder engagement

Report writing

Policy alignment

SEND banding frameworks

Cost models

Job description

SEND Consultant

Location: Hybrid / Flexible
Contract: Consultancy / Fixed-Term (to be agreed)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

We Do Social Work is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of our local authority client for an experienced SEND Consultant to lead a high-profile project focused on developing a robust, transparent and sustainable SEND funding framework.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly experienced SEND professional to make a lasting impact by supporting the development of a fair and evidence-based banding model that will shape future funding decisions across mainstream, specialist and post-16 education settings.

Working independently, you will lead the testing and refinement of a proposed SEND banding framework, develop a comprehensive cost library to underpin funding decisions, and ensure the work is aligned with emerging national SEND reforms and the Schools White Paper.

The Role

As the successful consultant, you will provide expert advice and analysis, working closely with local authority officers, schools and finance teams to ensure the proposed funding framework is accurate, transparent and fit for the future.

Key Responsibilities

SEND Banding Framework

• Lead the testing and validation of the proposed SEND banding framework.
• Use case studies, data analysis and scenario modelling to assess fairness, consistency and financial accuracy.
• Identify areas for improvement and recommend practical enhancements.
• Ensure the framework reflects levels of need across mainstream, specialist and post-16 education settings.

Cost Library Development

• Design and develop a transparent, evidence-based cost library to support funding decisions.
• Analyse financial information from schools, specialist providers, local authority finance teams and national benchmarking data.
• Establish clear costing methodologies with documented assumptions and supporting evidence.
• Produce a sustainable model that can be maintained and updated as required.

SEND Reform and Policy Alignment

• Review the implications of the Schools White Paper and wider SEND reform agenda.
• Ensure the proposed framework is aligned with anticipated national policy and funding changes.
• Recommend practical approaches to support future implementation and transition.

Analysis and Reporting

• Produce detailed reports outlining methodology, findings and recommendations.
• Analyse financial and operational data to validate assumptions and assess financial impact.
• Present complex information clearly to senior leaders, governance boards and education partners.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build effective relationships with local authority officers, SENCOs, school leaders, finance colleagues and other stakeholders.
• Gather insight and feedback to inform the development of the framework.
• Present findings and recommendations to project boards and governance groups.
• Support stakeholder understanding and confidence in the proposed funding model.

About You

We're looking to speak with experienced SEND professionals who can demonstrate a strong background in local authority SEND services and education funding.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience working within a local authority SEND service.
• Strong understanding of operational SEND practice across schools and education settings.
• Experience delivering complex consultancy, transformation or improvement projects independently.
• Proven ability to produce high-quality reports and strategic recommendations.

Essential Skills

• Excellent analytical, financial modelling and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to explain complex information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Excellent organisational skills with strong attention to detail.
• In-depth understanding of statutory SEND legislation, policy and processes.
• Ability to interpret national reforms and translate them into practical local solutions.

Desirable

• Experience designing, reviewing or implementing SEND banding frameworks.
• Knowledge of the Schools White Paper and current SEND funding reforms.
• Experience developing cost models, resource allocation frameworks or education funding methodologies.