- Location: Medway, Hybrid (3 days office-based per week)
- Salary: £31,283 – £37,181 per annum
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Hours: Full-time
Job Description:
Optima Plus Recruitment is currently recruiting on behalf of a valued client for an experienced Assessment Officer (Education, Health and Care Plan Coordinator) to join their Education and SEND Division.
In this crucial role, you will manage the Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA) process and produce high-quality Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans within statutory timeframes. Working across Early Years through to post-16, you will ensure each plan reflects the aspirations and needs of children and young people with SEND, helping to achieve meaningful outcomes.
This is a full-time, permanent hybrid role requiring attendance at the office 3 days per week. Please note: previous Local Authority experience is essential.
Responsibilities:
- Manage a varied caseload, ensuring the statutory 20-week timescale is adhered to.
- Draft and amend Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) that are clear, outcome-focused and legally compliant.
- Coordinate multi-agency advice and input to support robust assessments.
- Act as a point of contact for parents/carers, providing technical guidance throughout the EHC assessment process.
- Ensure professional reports and recommendations are accurately reflected in EHCPs.
- Collaborate effectively with schools, education providers, health, and social care professionals.
- Represent the organisation at meetings, co-production sessions, tribunal support, and operational discussions.
- Maintain accurate case records using SEN databases, ensuring compliance with organisational protocols.
- Uphold statutory responsibilities under the Children and Families Act 2014 and the SEND Code of Practice (2015).
Required Skills & Experience:
- Qualifications: GCSEs (A–C/4–9) in Maths and English plus A Levels (or equivalent). Additional qualifications in SEND or Education are desirable.
- Knowledge:
- A strong understanding of SEND legislation and statutory assessment processes.
- Familiarity with the Children and Families Act 2014, Equality Act 2010, and safeguarding frameworks.
- Understanding of EHC pathways and the role of education, health, and social care in supporting young people.
- Experience:
- Previous Local Authority experience (essential).
- Experience working with children, young people, and families in a SEND/education setting.
- Proven ability to manage caseloads, interpret multi-agency advice, and produce accurate statutory documentation.
- Skills:
- Strong organisational and time management abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-agency team.
- Skilled in problem solving, conflict resolution, and negotiation.
- Proficient with IT systems, including Microsoft Office and SEN databases.
Company Overview:
A trusted and UKAS ISO9001 accredited leader in the recruitment industry. Providing comprehensive recruitment solutions across more than 20 diverse industries. Specializing in both temporary and permanent placements, as a modern and innovative organization, we leverage our valuable experience and adhere to a strict set of core values throughout our recruitment processes. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, and professionalism ensures that we consistently exceed expectations and build long-lasting relationships with both clients and all staff.
Armed Forces Covenant & Disability Committed: Equal Opportunity Employer
Optima Plus Recruitment is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace. We actively support the Armed Forces Covenant and are a Disability Committed employer. We do not discriminate based on race, colour, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to eliminating barriers to employment. If you need accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a professional and supportive team, apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter.