Are you passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)? Derbyshire Virtual School is seeking an experienced and motivated Virtual School Officer (SEND) to join our dedicated team on a temporary maternity cover basis.
This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of children and young people in care aged 0-18. Working within our established Virtual School team, you will help remove barriers to learning, support preparation for adulthood, and ensure children and young people with SEND receive the right support to achieve positive educational outcomes.
About the Role
You will work closely children and young people, carers, social workers, schools, colleges, SEND services and other multi-agency partners to:
- Identify and assess SEND needs and support the planning of effective interventions.
- Contribute to Education, Health and Care (EHC) assessment and planning processes, ensuring statutory duties and timescales are met.
- Liaise with local authorities and education providers to secure appropriate educational provision, particularly when children move placements.
- Advocate for children and young people, ensuring their views, aspirations and outcomes remain central to planning.
- Provide advice, guidance and challenge to professionals to promote inclusive education and improve outcomes.
- Deliver training, projects, events and interventions that support the work of the Virtual School.
- Maintain accurate records and work in accordance with safeguarding policies and procedures.
We Are Looking For Someone Who Has
- Significant experience of working with children and young people in a variety of settings.
- Experience of multi-agency working and building effective professional relationships.
- A good understanding of SEND legislation, Children in Care legislation, inclusive practice and educational processes.
- Experience of assessing needs, planning support and reviewing outcomes.
- Excellent communication, advocacy and negotiation skills.
- The ability to manage a varied workload and work effectively in complex situations.
- Strong commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and improving life chances for vulnerable children and young people.
- Good ICT skills and experience of maintaining accurate records.
Qualifications
Essential: NVQ Level 4 (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
Desirable: IPSEA SEND Legal Training or equivalent SEND-related professional development.
We Offer
- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to vulnerable children and young people.
- A friendly, supportive and committed Virtual School team.
- Access to high-quality professional development.
- The opportunity to contribute to the continued development of Derbyshire Virtual School and its work across children in care and wider Virtual School responsibilities.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Helen Moxon, Interim Virtual Headteacher, at helen.moxon@derbyshire.gov.uk
Join us in helping children and young people with SEND overcome barriers, achieve their potential and thrive.
Provisional Interview Date: 11 November 2026
