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Shape the future of children and young people with Special Educational Needs.
Are you an experienced lawyer looking for an opportunity to do meaningful work that genuinely changes lives? West Berkshire Council is seeking a talented and motivated SEN Lawyer to join our highly regarded Legal Services team. This is a rewarding opportunity to play a key role in supporting some of our most vulnerable children and young people, helping to ensure they receive the education, support and opportunities they deserve.
Working alongside education professionals, senior officers and key stakeholders, you will provide expert legal advice on a wide range of Special Educational Needs matters, making a real difference to outcomes for children, families and the wider community.
Why Join Us?
At West Berkshire Council, you'll be part of a supportive, collaborative and forward-thinking legal team that values expertise, innovation and professional development. We are committed to creating an environment where our people can thrive, balancing rewarding work with flexibility and wellbeing.
In Return, We Offer
- Flexible working arrangements between 7.00am and 9.00pm wherever possible
- Hybrid working, with only 40% office attendance required
- A generous Local Government Pension Scheme
- Family-friendly policies that support work-life balance
- Employee wellbeing support, including an Employee Assistance Programme
- A range of local and national employee discounts
- Generous annual leave entitlement starting at 29 days plus public holidays, increasing by an additional five days after five years' service
- The opportunity to work for an organisation committed to improving the lives of local residents
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About The Role
As one of our SEN Lawyers, you will manage a varied and interesting caseload, providing high-quality legal advice and representation across all aspects of Special Educational Needs law.
Key Responsibilities Include
- Providing expert legal advice on SEN matters, including appeals before the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability)
- Advising officers and members on legal duties, risks and best practice
- Conducting legal research and preparing advice notes, legal agreements and other documentation
- Representing the Council at hearings and other legal proceedings
- Working closely with education services and other stakeholders to support effective decision-making
- Contributing to the development of policies, procedures and service improvements within the SEN service area
About You
We're looking for an enthusiastic and committed legal professional who combines strong technical expertise with a genuine passion for public service.
You Will Be
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate (or equivalent entitlement to practise)
- Experienced in advising on SEN law, ideally within a local authority or similarly complex organisation
- Knowledgeable in relevant legislation, including the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice and Equality Act 2010
- An excellent communicator, able to explain complex legal issues clearly and confidently
- Skilled at building positive relationships with colleagues, clients and external stakeholders
- Organised and resilient, with the ability to manage competing priorities and a varied caseload
- A collaborative team player who is committed to achieving the best outcomes for children and young people
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Be Part of Something That Matters
This is more than just a legal role. It's an opportunity to use your expertise to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, helping them to access the services and support they need to thrive.
If you're looking for a role where your work has a tangible impact, while enjoying excellent flexibility, career development and a supportive team culture, we'd love to hear from you.
Please take a look at our Legal team candidate pack to learn more about what it's like to work with us.
Please note: We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. Early application is therefore encouraged.
This post is a Sensitive Post for the purpose of the Local Government Housing Act 1989 and the post-holder is therefore restricted from engaging in any prescribed political activities. In summary, this means that you are prohibited from holding political office and from involvement in any political activity within or outside the workplace. Full details of the restrictions can be found in the Council's Policy and Guidance on Politically Restricted Posts.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Laura Knowles on 01635 519431 or email laura.knowles1@westberks.gov.uk.
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