School Attendance Support Officer

Job Description

West Northamptonshire Council is looking to recruit a dedicated School Attendance Support Officer (SASO) to join our School Attendance Support Service. As a School Attendance Support Officer, you will work closely with schools to improve attendance, particularly for vulnerable students, ensuring they receive the education they deserve. Using key attendance data, you will identify barriers and provide targeted support to students and their families, fostering collaboration between schools, parents, and services. Your role will involve facilitating Targeted Support Meetings and applying DfE Attendance guidance to address attendance concerns.

This challenging yet rewarding role offers a chance to make a significant difference in the educational journey of young people within West Northamptonshire.

Key Responsibilities of the School Attendance Support Officer

As a School Attendance Support Officer, you will:

• Monitor school attendance trends and identify pupils at risk of low attendance.

• Work with schools and other services to overcome barriers to good attendance.

• Facilitate Targeted Support Meetings, ensuring that appropriate support is provided.

• Use clear processes to encourage good attendance, and where necessary, apply prosecution to achieve positive outcomes.

• Maintain excellent communication with schools, families, and services to ensure students are supported in their educational journey.

Essential Skills for the School Attendance Support Officer Role

To be successful as a School Attendance Support Officer, you will need:

• Strong communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to engage students, parents, and educational staff.

• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify barriers and find solutions for improved attendance.

• A collaborative and supportive approach to working with different teams.

• Ability to challenge when necessary to ensure the best outcomes for students.

Why Work with West Northamptonshire Council?

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including:

• Generous annual leave entitlement, including 28 days plus bank holidays, and additional leave options.

• Local Government Pension Scheme with immediate life cover.

• Employee discounts with local and national retailers, health and beauty, and travel.

• Professional development opportunities and flexible working options to suit your work-life balance.

• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme, providing support for both you and your family.