Early Years SEND Advisor

We have an exciting opportunity for a dedicated and experienced professional to lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of Early Years educational programmes across Luton — including the Portage Service. You will play a vital role in shaping inclusive early education by supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and their families during their crucial early years.

A key part of your role will involve offering expert advice and support on inclusive practice to private, voluntary, and independent early years settings. Working closely with Inclusion Co-ordinators, you will contribute to the planning and delivery of services for disabled children and their families through the Children’s Centre Advisory Boards. You will also plan, write, and deliver training programmes aligned with DfE and Children’s Services guidance, helping to build capacity and expertise across the early years sector.

You will identify, assess, and support pre-statutory school-aged children with SEN, developing and monitoring Individual Education Plans in collaboration with parents, professionals, and early years providers. This will include managing statutory assessments under the Education Act 1996, preparing educational advice for EHCPs, and attending key transition and review meetings as required.

Supporting families is at the heart of this role. You will provide guidance on appropriate provision, ensuring smooth and well-managed transitions from early years settings into school. By developing strong partnerships with other agencies — including Educational Psychologists, Advisory Teachers, and the Child Development Centre — you will ensure a coordinated and responsive approach to meeting the needs of young children with SEN.

In addition, you will manage referrals and caseloads, contribute to the Early Years Panel process, monitor funding allocations, and work collaboratively with senior colleagues to oversee elements of the Early Years budget. You will also play an active role in supporting the Government’s two-year funding initiative by contributing to local policy and promoting good practice across the sector.

This is a varied and rewarding role for someone passionate about inclusion, early intervention, and improving outcomes for all children in Luton.