SEND Specialist Outreach Worker: Early Years SEND & Portage Team

Calderdale Council; Halifax; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading council is seeking a SEND Specialist Outreach Worker for their Early Years SEND & Portage Team. This hybrid role involves supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) aged 0-5 across various settings. The successful candidate will collaborate with families and professionals, delivering inclusive education and training. A commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare is essential, alongside a full UK driving license.

Qualifications

• Recent experience working with children with SEND in the Early Years sector.
• Knowledge of SEND processes and relevant legislation.

Responsibilities

• Support children and families in early learning and development.
• Deliver a Portage model of specialist early education.
• Empower families and practitioners with knowledge and strategies.

Skills

Communication

Organizational Skills

Collaboration

Education

Understanding of EYFS Curriculum

Job description

SEND Specialist Outreach Worker: Early Years SEND & Portage Team

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Job Overview

We are seeking a SEND Specialist Outreach Worker to join our respected EYSEND & Portage Team, part of Calderdale’s Specialist Inclusion Team (SIT). This hybrid role is based at Shay Stadium, Halifax, and involves working directly with children aged 0-5 with SEND across various settings, including family homes, educational, and community environments.

Responsibilities

• Support children and families in early learning and development, ensuring inclusive access to education and community activities.
• Deliver a Portage model of specialist early education and key-working, following the National Portage Association guidelines.
• Empower families, practitioners, and professionals with knowledge, skills, and strategies to support children's learning and inclusion.
• Collaborate with Calderdale Family Hubs, provide training to early years sector and multi-agency partners, and promote inclusive practices.

Candidate Requirements

• Recent experience working with children with SEND in the Early Years sector.
• Understanding of early child development, EYFS curriculum, and assessment tools.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills for managing caseloads.
• Knowledge of small steps approaches, task analysis, and early years pedagogy.
• Commitment to improving inclusion, utilizing Dingley’s Promise approaches.
• Experience in multi-agency collaboration, action planning, and progress reviews.
• Ability to work in partnership with families and agencies.
• Knowledge of SEND processes, the SEND Code of Practice, and relevant legislation.
• Ability to contribute to training development and delivery.

Applicants must have a full UK driving license and access to a car. Participation in induction, supervision, mentoring, and professional development is required.

Additional Information

Closing date: Tuesday 20th May 2025. Interview date: TBC. Digital interview methods may be used.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. A DBS check is required for exempt roles.

Equal Opportunities

Calderdale Council values diversity and is committed to inclusive employment. Applications from underrepresented communities are encouraged, and all applications are anonymized before review.