Location
Cognus Office, First Floor, Cantium House, Wallington, SM6 0DZ

Hours
Full Time – 37 Hours per Week, 12-month maternity cover contract

Salary
Cognus Band 2, £37,601.87 per annum (1 FTE)

About the Role
Cognus Limited is a Local Authority Traded Company commissioned by the London Borough of Sutton to provide education services to early years providers, mainstream schools, and specialist education settings in Sutton. Wholly owned by the local authority, we deliver a wide range of high-quality services that improve the lives of children, young people, and families in Sutton and beyond.

The term ‘Special Educational Needs’ (SEN) has a legal definition. Young people with SEN have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn than most others of the same age and may require additional learning support. The Local Authority (LA) conducts Education Health Care Needs Assessments (EHCNA) based on specialist advice. If the LA decides a young person requires special help, they must write an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC Plan). This legally enforceable document outlines all the young person’s needs, the special help required, and the educational placement.

The post-holder will carry out duties associated with statutory EHCN assessments of young people with special educational needs, including writing EHC Plans covering provision and placement, reviewing and monitoring progress in accordance with the Children and Families Act 2014 and the Code of Practice on Special Educational Needs 2015.

In line with Sutton’s policy of educating young people within their local community wherever possible, the post-holder will monitor the appropriateness of outborough provision and seek opportunities to move students back to Sutton.

The role includes coordinating the case management system and enabling provision that improves outcomes for children and young people with special needs and/or disabilities and their families.

The post-holder will report to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Service Manager and the Head of Special Educational Needs.

Cognus is committed to lifelong learning and supporting schools, families, children, and young people to access education and enjoy learning. We believe every child matters and that access to education is a fundamental right. We aim for every child and young person to achieve their full potential and become future leaders, professionals, and economically active global citizens, regardless of their abilities, disabilities, or background.

We offer an excellent package including:
- Annual salary of £37,601.87, Cognus Band 2
- Workplace pension scheme with 4% to 8% matched contributions
- 28 days annual leave pro rata (plus Bank Holidays)
- Regular manager support and supervision
- Hybrid and flexible working
- Staff benefits package including Employee Assistance Programme, Perkbox, and (upon completion of probation) Sovereign Healthcare Cashback plans
- Staff EDI group and Mental Health First Aiders to support wellbeing and inclusion
- Cognus Coaching Programmes
- An ambitious culture with friendly and supportive colleagues

Experience
Experience working within special educational needs or education services is desirable. Knowledge of statutory EHCN assessment processes and the Children and Families Act 2014 is advantageous.

About you
You will be committed to improving outcomes for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. You should be organised, proactive, and able to work collaboratively with families, schools, and professionals. A strong understanding of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people is essential.

You will demonstrate excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage a complex caseload effectively.

Qualifications
Relevant qualifications in education, social work, or related fields are desirable but not essential. A willingness to undertake further training and professional development is expected.