SEND Transformation Lead - Sutton Council (12-18 Month Contract)

Location: Sutton (Hybrid)

Role Overview:
Lead the development and delivery of Priority 5 of Sutton Council's SEND and AP Strategy: creating a financially sustainable DSG management plan.

Collaborate with seconded and non-seconded staff, stakeholders (e.g., Sutton SEND Forum), and others to focus on three key areas: Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP), Specialist Commissioning, and Funding Arrangements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop guidance and practices to address SEND needs earlier, reducing EHCNA numbers.


• Establish OAP guidance for Early Years, mainstream primary and secondary, and enhanced provision.


• Embed curriculum adaptations for Autism and SEMH needs.


• Create a primary and secondary IMT model to align with inclusion metrics.


• Design inclusive pathways with functional life skills alongside the National Curriculum.


• Launch Early Years and Year 6-7 Support Plans with targeted funding.

• Work with Pupil Based Commissioning to review and develop a 5-year SEND strategy.


• Increase sufficiency of in-borough specialist provision, reducing reliance on external placements.


• Analyze specialist provision profiles and support discussions on mainstream inclusion.


• Evaluate and redefine the role of resource bases in alignment with long-term inclusion goals.


• Strengthen SEMH provision through reintegration, outreach, and high-quality support from specialist providers.

• Review decision-making and cost-control processes to prioritize resources effectively.


• Enhance the Annual Review process, providing training for schools and parents on plan cessation and provision reduction.


• Evaluate high-cost placements and establish joint working with Health and Social Care.


• Revise Sutton Top Ups and consider alternative funding models, potentially delegating funding to clusters and increasing universal-level professional services.


• Assess and optimize SENCO clusters' operations.

Main Accountabilities:

• Develop and deliver a comprehensive SEND transformation program.


• Manage risks, dependencies, and challenges effectively.


• Drive inclusive education, health, and social care provision improvements.


• Build strong relationships with stakeholders to ensure engagement and successful change delivery.

Person Specification:

• Degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional qualification.


• Extensive knowledge and experience in SEND systems and Local Authority environments.


• Proven expertise in managing complex SEND transformation programs.


• Strong understanding of local authority roles, efficiency agendas, and value-for-money practices.


• Advanced analytical, leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills.


• Demonstrated ability to influence and lead cultural change in complex systems.

If you are interested in this role or want further discussion, please contact Lewis O'Donnell either via email: lewis.odonnell@servicecare.org.uk or tel: 01772208962.

Alternatively, if you have any friend or colleagues that might be interested, please feel free to refer them as we a have a referral scheme in place of up to £250.