Job Introduction
Northumberland County Council is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Education Welfare Officer to join our Virtual School team. This is a vital role focused on improving school attendance and promoting the educational welfare and safeguarding of children—particularly those with a social worker.
As an integral part of our Virtual School, you will help uphold the Local Authority’s statutory responsibilities in areas such as school attendance, elective home education, children missing education, and child employment and performance licensing.
Key Responsibilities
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Support and challenge schools to improve attendance and reduce persistent absence
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Undertake casework with children and families to overcome barriers to education
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Promote the education of children with a social worker in line with extended duties of the Virtual School Headteacher
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Collaborate with schools, parents, and partner agencies to promote welfare and safeguarding
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Monitor and follow up on children missing from education and those in elective home education
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Provide advice and training to schools on attendance strategies and policy
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Maintain accurate records and produce reports as needed for case management
About You
We are looking for someone who is passionate about children’s education, well-organised, and emotionally intelligent. You’ll need to be a confident communicator, resilient under pressure, and dedicated to making a difference.
Essential Requirements:
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A good general standard of education
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Experience in education, social care, or a related setting
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Strong working knowledge of current safeguarding and education legislation
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Ability to work independently and manage a caseload
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Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Desirable Qualifications:
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Recognised professional qualification in Social Work, Education, Psychology, Youth Work, Nursing, or Childcare
Why Choose Northumberland County Council?
We offer an excellent range of benefits, including:
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26 days annual leave (rising to 31 days after 5 years’ service), plus public holidays (pro rata for part-time)
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Local Government Pension Scheme
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Flexible working with up to 2 days flexi-leave per month (where applicable)
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Strong team support and professional development opportunities
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Inclusive, equal-opportunities employer with guaranteed interview scheme for eligible disabled applicants
How to Apply
For more information, please refer to the job description and person specification attached to the job post.
To discuss the role informally, contact Sarah Wintringham, Principal Education Welfare Officer, on 07584 273772.
Stay updated on future roles:
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Facebook: NCC Jobs Group
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LinkedIn: Northumberland County Council Jobs
Accessibility & Inclusion
We are committed to providing equal access.
To request this application in an alternative format or for assistance with the guaranteed interview scheme, contact hrrecruitment@northumberland.gov.uk or call 01670 623930.
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