An exciting opportunity has arisen at Oaklands for Care Experience Coordinator to provide outstanding support to our students who are within the care system.
We are looking for a dedicated individual to join our team and play a crucial role in supporting our most vulnerable students. In this position, you will act as Designated Teacher, chairing all Personal Educational Plans, (PEPs) for our Looked After Child, (LAC) students. You will also be responsible for working closely with a number of local authorities to ensure students get the support and encouragement required. Also, you will help identify any barriers to learning and support students to overcome these.
The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of the care system in England, including robust understanding of The Children’s Act of 1989 and the Care Act of 2014. You should be proficient in Microsoft Office and capable of managing multiple priorities effectively. Previous experience supporting vulnerable young people is essential, along with a commitment to providing a high-quality experience for our care experienced students.
Key Responsibilities
* Robust monitoring, reporting and recording of attendance and progress with timely communication to schools, Virtual Schools and external agencies.
* To act as an advocate or nominate an appropriate advocate to ensure support in all relevant meetings.
* Ensure all Care Experienced students are identified, provided with appropriate support and are engaged in the Personal Educational Plans (PEP) process.
* Represent the college at internal and external progress reviews as required, and ensure all Personal Educational Plans are completed in a timely manner.
* To ensure the college systems obtains accurate contact details of all agencies and named professionals which is updated regularly for students who are looked after or care leavers.
* To ensure effective communication with appropriate professionals and escalation of concerns is completed in a timely and efficient manner.
* Contribute to the development of, and review, relevant college policies to ensure that they do not unintentionally disadvantage vulnerable students.
* Plan and deliver effective transition arrangements to support the student moving from school to college, including appropriate care and consideration for application, enrolment and induction periods.
* Evaluate individual student’s needs when joining the college to establish the student’s views and wishes and relevant support and action plans.
* Promote a culture in which students believe they can succeed and aspire to positive progression, employment and/or higher education.
* Ensure appropriate systems are in place to enable students to discuss their progress, be involved in setting their own targets, have their views taken seriously and are supported to take responsibility for their own learning and behaviour.
* Be a source of advice for curriculum colleagues at college about differentiated teaching strategies appropriate for individual student needs and maintaining a culture of high aspirations.
* Promote good home-college links through contact with the student’s parent /carer/external agencies to raise understanding about how they can support the student’s progress.
* Be aware of and follow College policies and procedures, with particular attention to health and safety, safeguarding, risk management, equality and diversity, quality and our values and behaviours. You will be required to attend training and CPD events as necessary.
Is This You?
* A strong understanding of the care system in England, including robust knowledge of The Children’s Act 1989 and The Care Act of 2014.
* Experience of multiagency work to provide the best support to vulnerable young people, including an understanding of Working Together 2024.
* Experience of providing advice and support to individuals and groups in FE colleges or schools.
* Demonstrable knowledge of the principles involved in giving advice and guidance to children/young people/adults in need, including the principle of confidentiality.
* Excellent organisational skills and ability to work independently.
* Extensive knowledge of Microsoft office package and experience of data systems.
* Not essential, but desired: BA in social work, youth work, counselling or education.
Your Future Starts at Oaklands
At Oaklands College, we value our staff and are committed to your wellbeing and development. When you join us, you become part of a vibrant and forward-thinking team that supports innovation, creativity, and learner-centred teaching.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
* Generous holiday allowance – 30 days plus bank holidays.
* Local Government Pension Scheme with excellent employer contributions.
* Ongoing CPD and free access to Adult Community Learning courses.
* Free onsite permit parking.
* Onsite gym at St Albans Campus and wellness treatments at discounted rates.
* Cycle to Work Scheme and discounted travel through UNO Bus Scheme.
* Eye care vouchers and employee assistance programme.
* Mental health and wellbeing support, including peer supporters.
* Staff development days and annual awards celebrating your achievements.
Oaklands College is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and we actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and stakeholders to share this commitment.
We review applications on a rolling basis and may close this advert early if we receive high interest. Don’t miss your opportunity to join a college that’s shaping futures and transforming lives.
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