SEND Transformation Lead

Job Description:

Our client is currently looking to recruit a SEND Transformation Lead on an initial 3 month contract SEND Transformation Lead £500 per day Remote Drive Strategic Change for Children and Young People with SEND. We are seeking a skilled and highly motivated SEND Transformation Lead to play a central role in delivering a major education transformation programme for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in a large and diverse urban local area. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring the effective planning and implementation of a long-term strategy to improve outcomes, inclusion, and provision for children and families.

About the Role Working at a senior strategic level within the education and inclusion system, the SEND Transformation Lead will be responsible for shaping and coordinating the delivery of the area’s SEND and Inclusion Strategy. This includes leading on Safety Valve commitments, developing high-quality provision, and ensuring children and young people with SEND receive the right support at the right time. You will lead cross-functional teams, work closely with multi-agency stakeholders, and provide expert oversight of project delivery, performance management, governance, and risk.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as strategic lead for SEND transformation, inclusion and attendance workstreams.
• Deliver the activities and reporting required under the Department for Education’s Safety Valve programme.
• Oversee implementation and monitoring of the DSG Deficit Management Plan.
• Lead a programme of complex, multi-agency projects focused on service redesign, improved outcomes and financial sustainability.
• Develop and maintain integrated, detailed programme plans and ensure timely, high-quality delivery.
• Establish and maintain strong governance, reporting to senior directors and executive boards.
• Provide leadership to internal teams, partner services and stakeholders across the education and inclusion landscape.
• Champion inclusive practice, innovation and evidence-based service improvement.

Essential Skills & Experience We are looking for an experienced leader with:

• Proven expertise in SEND system transformation, ideally within a local authority or public sector context.
• Strong command of programme and project management methodologies (PRINCE2, MSP, Agile or similar).
• Track record of leading complex, cross-cutting projects with high impact and visibility.
• A collaborative leadership style with the ability to inspire, engage and challenge at all levels.
• Deep understanding of the SEND landscape, policy environment and national expectations.
• Excellent analytical, planning and financial management skills.
• Confidence in managing risk, influencing senior stakeholders, and delivering under scrutiny.
• Commitment to inclusion, co-production, and working in partnership with children, families and service providers.

This is a unique opportunity to lead real change for children and young people with SEND — shaping strategy, improving lives, and ensuring delivery against national priorities. You will join a forward-thinking leadership environment with strong commitment to inclusion, collaboration, and continuous improvement.