Overview

An opportunity has arisen in the Assessment and Planning team, part of the Education Division, for an SEN Tribunal Officer. We are looking for an officer to represent the Local Authority at the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) hearings and to facilitate ongoing work in reducing the number of appeals to SENDIST.

You will deliver effective case management of SEN appeals to ensure that the Local Authority discharges its statutory responsibilities effectively in relation to appeals to SENDIST.

Responsibilities

• Manage SEN appeals and casework to ensure statutory responsibilities are discharged effectively in relation to SENDIST.
• Represent the Local Authority at SENDIST hearings.
• Apply knowledge of current SEN legislation and reform, statutory procedures, and processes governing the provision of services for children and young people with special educational needs.
• Utilise communication and analytical skills and proven negotiation skills to achieve desired outcomes.
• Apply working knowledge of the Children and Families Act, the SEND Code of Practice, and its implementation through SEND reforms.
• Be an innovative problem solver who demonstrates resilience and positivity while seeking solutions.
• Demonstrate organisational and time management skills to adhere to statutory timescales.

What the Education Division offers

• A motivated team committed to the continuous improvement of outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
• A commitment to a model of reflective practice based on regular supervision to support professional development.
• A continued professional development (CPD) programme to enhance skills and knowledge to support service performance.
• A team of motivated and committed peers.
• A diverse range of benefits to support you during employment (further information available on the benefits page).
• County Hall provides a cafe with hot and cold lunches, snacks and drinks, with seating indoors and outdoors.

Working pattern

This role is subject to a hybrid working agreement currently set at 2 days on site at County Hall, Lewes and 3 days working from home. Please note this is subject to change at short notice depending on service requirements.

Application process

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Interviews are scheduled for Friday 10 October 2025 and will be a face-to-face interview, followed by a task, at County Hall, Lewes.

Additional information

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services. For further information about what is required, please visit the GOV.UK DBS checks page. Evidence of an overseas police check is required if you have lived or worked abroad. Your starting salary will be pro rata if the position is part-time or term-time only.

If sponsorship to work in the UK is required, please indicate this in your application. For more information, visate GOV.UK work visas page. If you require reasonable adjustments to participate fully in the process due to disability, please contact the hiring manager.