4 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Virtual School Officer to join a dedicated team committed to raising the educational attainment and outcomes of children and young people known to Social Care.
• The role involves supporting the education of Looked After Children from nursery to age 18, working in close collaboration with schools, social care teams, carers, and other professionals.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Hold a caseload of Looked After Children (aged 2–18), tracking their attainment, attendance, and progress.
• Lead and record Personal Education Plan (PEP) meetings in line with statutory guidance.
• Provide educational advice and guidance to schools, social workers, carers, and other stakeholders.
• Contribute to the Education section of Pathway Plans for Care Leavers aged 18–25.
• Support school admissions, exclusions, and transitions, advocating for the needs of children known to Social Care.
• Collaborate with Lead Practitioners in specialist areas (e.g., Attendance, Exclusion, Post-16, Enrichment).
• Deliver and support training for school staff, foster carers, and social workers.
• Help plan and facilitate enrichment and extracurricular learning activities.
• Ensure accurate and timely data entry into relevant education and tracking systems.
Skills/Experience:
• Minimum of one year’s experience working in the UK education system or within a Virtual School or education support service.
• Proven experience working with vulnerable children, including those with SEND or EAL.
• Knowledge of the educational challenges faced by Looked After Children and strategies to support their progress.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, multi-agency collaboration, and child protection processes.
• Confident using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access) and education data systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing a varied caseload.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work directly with children and advocate on their behalf.
Additional Information:
• This is a non-management role graded at SO1, requiring enhanced DBS clearance.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.
• Postgraduate qualification in education, social work, or a related field.
• Valid UK driving licence.
• Hybrid working arrangements may be available, depending on service needs.