Send Early Years Advisor

Do you want to make a lasting difference to the lives of young children with SEND and their families? If you are passionate about inclusion, creative in your thinking and committed to improving outcomes for children, then this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

As part of our specialist SEND Early Years Service, you will support Foundation Stage children with special educational needs, disabilities and complex medical needs to access high-quality early education. You will provide advice, guidance and practical support to early years settings, helping them implement effective interventions and inclusive strategies. Working collaboratively with families, schools, early years providers and partner agencies, you will play a key role in building capacity across the sector and improving outcomes for children across home, preschool and school environments.

We are seeking a qualified teacher (QTS or EYTS) with recent experience of supporting children aged 0-5 with a range of complex SEND and/or medical needs. You will be committed to securing the very best outcomes for young children and promoting inclusive practice across East Sussex.

We are looking for candidates who:

• Hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS)
• Have experience of teaching children with SEND and working alongside families
• Have knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage and child development
• Understand current SEND legislation and best practice
• Can build effective relationships and work confidently across multi-agency partnerships

Please download the Job Description and Person Specification for more information.

For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page and our statement on the use of AI

Interviews will take place in person at County Hall, Lewes on Wednesday 11 November 2026.

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.

Why Join Us?

The SEND Early Years Service is a highly regarded countywide specialist service within the East Sussex Education Division. This is an opportunity to join a supportive and experienced team that is passionate about inclusion and improving outcomes for young children with SEND.

You will receive a comprehensive induction programme, high-quality supervision, opportunities for professional development, regular case discussion and strong peer support. The role offers a varied and rewarding opportunity to influence practice across a wide range of early years settings and schools. The post is based in Lewes, although travel across East Sussex will be required according to service need.

• Men
• People from Black and ethnically diverse backgrounds
• Disabled people
• People who identify as LGBTQ+

We are working towards recruiting a workforce that reflects our community because we recognise the value of diverse perspectives and experiences.

We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Jake Perry, Service Manager, SEND Early Years Service, on 07525 387 496.

"I joined East Sussex after a 30-year career in teaching and education. I really wanted the opportunity to use the experience I'd gained throughout my career to help a wider range of people." - Emma, Early Years Support and Intervention Officer.

For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!