Directorate: Children and Family Services Section: Access and Support for Vulnerable Learners Location: Civic Centre Grade: Level 12 Salary: Pro Rata Term Time Under 5 years service - £42,390 - £45,338 Over 5 years service - £43,350 - £46,521 Hours: 37 hours – Full time, Term Time 6 Inset Days 15 days This advert is open to both Internal and External applicants. Are you passionate about building strong partnerships with schools to create an inclusive education for all? This is a unique opportunity to become the Exclusions and Re-engagement Officer in our Local Authority, working side by side with schools, partner agencies and colleagues in the Access and Support for Vulnerable Learners Services as part of the Education Re-engagement Team. We know that permanent exclusion can be one of the most challenging and complex decisions a school faces, that’s why this role is designed to provide schools with expert support, practical solutions, and strategic guidance – helping leaders balance statutory responsibilities with compassion, creativity and positive outcomes for children. You will be the central link between schools, alternative provisions, services, families and children/young people – helping to shape approaches that prevent exclusions where possible and secure high-quality re-engagement when they occur. With your skill and expertise, you will ensure every exclusion process is fair, consistent, and compliant, while driving forward innovative pathways to keep children engaged in education. Key to your success will be your ability to: Work in close partnership with schools, providing advice, challenge, and reassurance around exclusions practice. Lead on re-engagement and re-integration pathways, co-designing solutions with schools that meet learner’s needs. Build strong relationships across education, social care, health, and voluntary services to ensure holistic support for pupils and families Analyse trends and data, helping schools and the Local Authority to identify challenges early and act with impact Advocate for pupils at risk of exclusion, amplifying their voices and helping schools to consider fresh perspectives About You: We are seeking a professional who thrives on collaboration, innovation, and influence. You will be equally comfortable working one to one with a headteacher to resolve a difficult case as you are leading discussions at strategic forums. Essential qualities include: In-depth knowledge of statutory exclusions guidance, and alternative provision Experience of supporting schools in managing behaviour, inclusion or exclusions Outstanding communication and partnership skills, with the ability to influence, advise and challenge constructively Analytical ability to interpret data, measure outcomes and drive continuous improvement A strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and ensuring schools feel supported- not isolated- in tackling exclusions Why Join Us? You will be: Positioned at the heart of our vision for inclusive education, working alongside leaders to create lasting change Supported by a forward-thinking senior leadership team that values creativity, determination, and collaboration A trusted partner to schools, working hand in hand supporting school leaders through challenging decisions helping to shape positive, inclusive approaches across the City Driving innovation and practice, with the mandate to pioneer new ways of preventing exclusions and strengthening re- engagement Making a visible difference every day, from shaping policy to supporting individual children, you will see real-world impact of your work- transforming opportunities for leaners who need it most. If you have the vision, the resilience, and the passion to make education truly inclusive, then step forward – because this is your chance to leave a legacy that will be felt for years to come! We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all our employees and volunteers to share this commitment. This position is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the successful applicant will be subject to a criminal record check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please note that if an employee who is currently at risk of redundancy within the organisation applies for this vacancy their application will receive priority. If this happens you will be advised accordingly. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion At Stoke-on-Trent City Council, we believe our strength comes from the diversity of our community, and we want our workforce to reflect that. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We understand that some people, especially those from underrepresented or marginalised backgrounds, may hesitate to apply if they don’t meet all of the listed requirements. If this role interests you and you think you could be a good fit, we encourage you to apply. We are proud of what makes each of us unique and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels included, can be themselves, and can succeed together. To Apply - please visit our website https://webrecruitment.stoke.gov.uk/wrl/ If you have any queries or want an application form in another format, please email recruitment@stoke.gov.uk or call us on 01782 238189.