SEN Area Team Manager

Job Details:

Job Reference: HCC624731
Salary Range: £48,948 - £54 423 per annum
Work Location: Elizabeth II Court, Winchester (Hybrid Working)
Hours per week: 37
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 1 September 2026 
Interview Date: 9 and 10 September 2026

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where collaboration, innovation and strategic thinking make a real difference?

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Area Team Manager within our Special Educational Needs (SEN) Service. This is a rewarding leadership role at the heart of statutory SEND operations, where you will play a key part in ensuring children and young people receive the support and provision they need to achieve their potential.

The Role:

As an Area Team Manager, you will provide leadership and oversight of a team responsible for delivering statutory SEND functions across a designated geographical area. You will ensure that services are delivered efficiently, compliantly and with a child-centred focus, working closely with families, schools, health partners and other stakeholders.

You will contribute to the strategic development of the service whilst maintaining a strong operational focus, ensuring high-quality outcomes for children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHC plans).

The role is offered on a hybrid working basis with 1 mandatory day in the office and visits to schools and colleges (as necessary).

What you’ll do:

• Lead and manage a team of SEND professionals, providing clear direction, support and performance management.
• Ensure statutory duties and timescales relating to EHCP assessment, review and placement processes are met.
• Oversee complex and high-profile casework, providing advice and guidance to staff and partners.
• Work collaboratively with schools, educational settings, families, health services and other agencies to secure appropriate provision.
• Drive continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to enhance service delivery and outcomes.
• Monitor performance, quality and compliance across the area team and implement effective solutions where needed.
• Support service transformation initiatives and contribute to strategic planning and policy development.
• Promote a culture of inclusion, accountability and high performance.

What we’re looking for:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated leader who:

• Has substantial experience working within SEND services, education, social care or a related field.
• Possesses a strong understanding of SEND legislation, the SEND Code of Practice and statutory processes.
• Has proven experience of leading and developing teams within a complex service environment.
• Demonstrates excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills.
• Can confidently manage competing priorities and make sound decisions in challenging situations.
• Is committed to achieving positive outcomes for children, young people and their families.
• Has strong organisational, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Embraces change and can lead others through service development and improvement.
• Sound IT skills and able to accurately record information.

Why join us?

• Make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people with SEND.
• Lead a dedicated and passionate team committed to delivering excellent services.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of a high-profile service.
• Benefit from a supportive leadership environment that values innovation and collaboration.
• Access a range of learning and development opportunities to support your career progression.
• Enjoy flexible working options and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing.
• Be part of an organisation that values inclusion, diversity and continuous improvement.
• Comprehensive induction programme with all necessary training. 

Our benefits package includes details of the holiday entitlement, pension scheme, flexi-time scheme, family friendly policies and interest free travel loans and discounts. We offer a flexible, motivating and inclusive workplace. We have created an environment that you can look forward to being a part of, where you are empowered to be your best and a workplace built on teamwork where people can grow and develop in their roles.

Hampshire County Council is recognised nationally as one of the highest performing local authorities in the UK. A modern, forward-looking local authority, it offers a pleasant, supportive, and collaborative working environment.

Hampshire County Council is also a flexible employer interested in making the most of your skills and offers a great work life balance.

Join us and help shape the future of SEND services, ensuring every child and young person has the opportunity to thrive. 

Additional Information:

SEN Area Team Manager Candidate Pack

Vetting Requirements:

This post is subject to a Criminal Records Check. As such, please note that under safer recruitment requirements for Children’s Services, references will be requested prior to interview.

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Pippa Damant, Assistant SEN Service Manager on pippa.damant@hants.gov.uk