Strategic Consultant - Alternative Povision (Interim)

Baltimore Consulting Limited; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A consulting firm is looking for an experienced Strategic Lead for a 3-month interim contract to support a Coastal Local Authority in delivering sustainable Alternative Provision services. Responsibilities include reviewing current services, engaging with providers, and developing strategic plans. The role offers hybrid working and a competitive rate of £550 per day. Ideal candidates will have strong knowledge of AP and SEND and a proven ability to lead change.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to promote inclusive education.
• Deep knowledge of Alternative Provision and SEND.
• Understanding of commissioning services.

Responsibilities

• Review current AP and SEND services.
• Support creation of the Local Area Inclusion Plan.
• Engage with providers to meet evolving needs.
• Champion early identification of needs.
• Develop council's strategy for Alternative Provision.

Skills

Promote inclusive education

Stakeholder engagement

Cultural and strategic change leadership

Data-informed decision making

Strong communication skills

Job description

Strategic Lead - Alternative Provision 3‑month interim contract

South Coast Council
£550 per day Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working, mandatory 2 days p/week

CVs are being reviewed immediately with a view to arrange interviews for W/C 27/10/25.

Baltimore Consulting are seeking an experienced Strategic Lead to support a Coastal Local Authority in shaping and delivering sustainable, inclusive Alternative Provision (AP) services. This interim role is pivotal to the development of the Local Area Inclusion Plan (LAIP) and the council's wider SEND & AP Change Programme.

Your Role as the Strategic Lead - AP:

• Review current AP and SEND services using the 3‑tier model of the SEND & AP Change Programme
• Support the creation of the LAIP and forecast multi‑year demand for Alternative Provision
• Engage with providers and settings to meet evolving needs
• Champion early and accurate identification of needs and inclusion whilst developing resources to monitor impact and effectiveness
• Advise on strategic and individual commissioning to improve mainstream provision
• Lead the development of the council's strategy for Appropriate and Alternative Provision

Your Previous Experience as a Strategic Lead:

• Proven ability to promote inclusive education and engage stakeholders, with experience leading cultural and strategic change
• Deep knowledge of AP, SEND, and the SEND & AP Change Programme
• Understanding of commissioning services
• Reflective practice and data‑informed decision making with strong communication and co‑production skills
• Must be able to work on site as required

If you're interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail or know someone who this may be of interest to, please contact Athena or apply today. (We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation, so please get in touch if you know someone suitable.)

Our clients are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments will be supported throughout the application and interview process.