Description:
School Staffing Solutions is recruiting on behalf of a small independent school supporting children with SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) needs and associated conditions. This school is entering an exciting phase of growth and development, providing an opportunity for a proactive and dedicated individual to drive its commercial success and ensure high levels of occupancy.
The Referrals Manager will work closely with the Directors, Headteacher, and senior colleagues to develop positive relationships with local authorities, parents, and other stakeholders. This role includes managing the referral pipeline, building relationships, and ensuring the school meets local authority demands while maintaining high standards of service delivery.
Key Responsibilities:
- Create and manage a robust referral system to ensure a strong pipeline throughout the year.
- Build and maintain relationships with case officers, SEN managers, and local authority representatives.
- Act as the primary contact for local authority referrals and placements.
- Collaborate with the Headteacher and Head of Marketing to promote the school and drive awareness.
- Work with parents and carers to facilitate successful referrals during consultations.
- Monitor and adapt to market needs, ensuring the school aligns with local authority requirements.
- Support contract management for placements and liaise with the finance team on invoicing issues.
- Conduct market analysis to understand competitors, sufficiency strategies, and local SEN provision.
- Maintain accurate referral data using CRM and other systems, including updating local authority contacts and school information.
Other Responsibilities:
- Actively engage with placing officers and managers to drive referral activity.
- Develop and implement a marketing/business strategy with the Head of Marketing.
- Diversify referral sources to avoid reliance on specific local authorities.
- Represent the school at open events, fostering relationships with prospective parents and carers.
- Stay informed on SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) developments and changes.
- Collaborate with the wider commercial team and provide support across the organization when needed.
- Promote a strong safeguarding culture within the company.
Qualifications and Essentials:
- A degree or equivalent qualification (desirable).
- Minimum GCSE English and Mathematics.
Skills and Experience:
- In-depth understanding of public sector funding in education for children's services.
- Experience working in education within the public, private, or charitable sectors.
- Knowledge of special educational needs (SEN) and/or Children in Care.
- Proven experience in a commercial environment, meeting deadlines and targets.
- Proficiency in CRM systems and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams).
- Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Experience working with senior colleagues, demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail.