SEN Finance Officer

SEN Finance Officer (Contract) – Bexley Borough

Are you a finance professional with experience in Local Authority settings and a passion for supporting children with special educational needs? We are seeking a dedicated SEN Finance Officer for a 3-month contract to join the Children’s Services Statutory Assessment Service in Bexley. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to vital public service initiatives, manage complex budgets, and work collaboratively with a diverse range of educational and health providers.

About the Role – SEN Finance Officer

The SEN Finance Officer will be responsible for actioning and monitoring expenditure related to support and placements detailed in EHCPs and SEN Statements for children and young people aged 0-25. Managing a budget in excess of £28m, the successful candidate will liaise with around 200 education providers and internal teams to ensure sound financial management in line with legislative frameworks and strategic objectives.

In this comprehensive role, the SEN Finance Officer will develop new ICT systems for financial management, oversee invoice processing, reconcile budgets, and produce detailed financial reports for senior management. The overreaching aim is to effectively track and support SEN funding, ensuring that statutory and local authority regulations are adhered to and that finance procedures promote transparency and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities of the SEN Finance Officer:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date budget information across multiple funding streams
• Produce monthly financial updates, including spending profiles and reconciliations for the High Needs Block
• Support and advise schools and other educational institutions regarding funding regulations and payment methods
• Verify, process, and authorise invoices, payment schedules, and BACS transactions ranging from £50 to over £250k
• Manage budgets for SEN equipment, NHS support, transport, and other services
• Produce and review funding statements for mainstream, specialist, and out-of-borough schools
• Liaise with Social Services, Health, and other agencies relevant to SEN funding arrangements
• Prepare reports, graphs, and charts for monthly monitoring and statutory requirements
• Issue purchase orders and ensure timely delivery of SEN support services and equipment
• Support the development of ICT systems for financial recording and reporting
• Provide high-quality customer service to schools, providers, and internal teams

Candidate Responsibilities – SEN Finance Officer

The ideal SEN Finance Officer will have strong financial acumen, experience working within Local Authority or educational finance, and familiarity with SEN legislation and funding mechanisms. Ability to handle complex budgets, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and develop ICT solutions will be key to success.

Benefits of the SEN Finance Officer Role

• Competitive pay rate (specify if available)
• 3-month contract with potential for extension
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children’s education and support services
• Collaborative environment with a dedicated team
• Gain experience within a statutory children’s services environment

How to Apply

Interested candidates should contact [Consultant Name] at [Email Address] or call [Phone Number] to discuss this exciting opportunity. Please send your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience in finance and local authority settings.

Join us as a SEN Finance Officer and help shape vital support services for children and young people with special educational needs!