Attendance Officer – Independent School – Oxford
Start Date: As soon as possible**
Contract: Full-time, Permanent**
Salary: Paid to scale**
School Information
This prestigious and academically high-achieving independent school in Oxford is renowned for excellence in both academic outcomes and pastoral support. With a long-standing reputation for intellectual curiosity, traditional values, and a holistic ethos, the school serves students aged 11–18 and offers a nurturing and aspirational environment.
The school campus combines heritage architecture with cutting-edge facilities, including modern learning centres, pastoral hubs, and high-quality digital systems. Behaviour is exemplary and attendance is consistently well above national averages, reflecting the excellent relationships between staff, students, and families. The school's leadership team prioritises student wellbeing, evidence-led practice, and a warm, collegial staff culture.
As part of the school's continued investment in pastoral excellence, they are seeking a highly efficient and proactive Attendance Officer.
Role Overview
The Attendance Officer plays a crucial role in promoting good attendance, supporting students with barriers to engagement, and maintaining accurate statutory records in line with independent-school standards.
Key responsibilities include:
* Monitoring daily attendance, punctuality, and lesson-by-lesson registers
* Calling parents regarding absences, unexplained non-attendance, and lateness
* Producing detailed attendance reports for SLT, Heads of Year, and Governors
* Identifying patterns of absence and implementing early-intervention strategies
* Meeting with students and families to discuss attendance concerns
* Working closely with the pastoral team to build personalised attendance plans
* Coordinating attendance letters, home visits, and formal meetings (with pastoral staff support)
* Ensuring compliance with safeguarding obligations by escalating concerns promptly
* Maintaining digital attendance systems (SIMS/Arbor training provided)
* Supporting whole-school attendance initiatives and recognition programmes
This role requires strong administrative skill, excellent communication, and the confidence to liaise with parents, students, and staff at all levels.
Pastoral & Attendance Team Information
You will join a highly effective pastoral network that includes Heads of Year, Tutors, Counsellors, and the DSL team. The school uses robust digital systems and provides full training on attendance software and safeguarding protocols.
The department is known for its collaborative ethos, structured routines, and proactive approach to student engagement. Staff receive ongoing CPD in attendance legislation, safeguarding, and pastoral intervention.
Candidate Requirements
* Experience in attendance, pastoral support, safeguarding, or school administration
* Strong analytical and data-handling skills
* Excellent communication, particularly with parents and students
* Ability to identify attendance patterns and implement targeted interventions
* Highly organised with strong attention to detail
* Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
* Professional and confident in difficult conversations
* Commitment to safeguarding and high standards of student welfare
Application
To apply, please send your CV as soon as possible.