Description
We are committed to the development of our workforce. This position is only available to applicants who already work for Surrey County Council. We thank you for your interest in our roles and would encourage you to review our vacancies which are open to all.
This permanent position has a starting salary of £31,722 per annum based on 36 hours per week across 39 weeks per year (term-time only), pro-rata to £36,873.
We are excited to be hiring two new Exclusion Officers to join our fantastic Surrey Attendance Service teams based in the East and West of the county. The East team are based at Woodhatch Place in Reigate and the West team are based in Victoria Gate in Woking.
Rewards and Benefits
1. An extensive Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
2. Up to 5 days of carer's leave per year
3. Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
4. A generous local government salary related pension
5. Lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, shopping and many more
6. 2 paid volunteering days per year
7. Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
About the Role
The Surrey Attendance Service is responsible for carrying out the Local authority's statutory responsibilities as outlined in the DfE "working together to improve schools attendance guidance" alongside other legislation.
We work with colleagues in the Education & Lifelong Learning directorate, specifically alongside: Gypsy, Romany & Traveller support teams, the Courts team, SEND, Social Care, Children Not in school Services and with schools, to promote the importance of school attendance, supporting with strategies to improve the attendance of children and young people in Surrey. The Service consists of Attendance, Advice & Intervention Officers who bring a diverse range of experience to the team.
As an Exclusion Officer, you will play a vital role in ensuring we meet our statutory responsibilities around exclusions. As part of this role, you will work closely with Headteachers and senior school leaders to identify and implement effective alternatives to permanent exclusion. You'll provide clear, accurate, and timely advice on the exclusion process, ensuring schools are well-supported in making informed decisions.
Equally important, you'll guide and support families as they navigate the complexities of exclusion, helping them understand their rights and options every step of the way.
Collaboration is key as you work with a range of partners to ensure that children and young people in Surrey who are excluded or at risk of exclusion receive the support they need.
This is a highly varied role with key responsibilities including:
8. Collaborating with Head Teachers and senior school staff to explore alternatives to permanent exclusion
9. Liaising with Pupil Referral Units and other providers to ensure Day 6 provision is in place
10. Providing clear, informed guidance to Head Teachers, parents, carers, and school governors on exclusion-related issues
11. Reviewing Permanent Exclusion Packs for governor's disciplinary hearing and providing the local authority view
12. Attending Independent Reviews when required
13. Assisting the Area Inclusion Manager with In Year Fair Access referrals for pupils from Pupil Referral Units and attending the Fair Access Panel when required
14. Keeping updated on legislation and guidance related to excluded children and providing accurate advice to schools', families and other agencies
15. Attending multi-agency meetings involving schools, professionals, and families to support inclusive education planning
This role is both challenging and deeply rewarding, giving you the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children, young people, and families across Surrey.
Shortlisting Criteria
16. To be considered for shortlisting for this position, your application will clearly evidence the following:
17. Knowledge of DfE guidance on suspensions, exclusions and behaviour in schools
18. Experience working with children and families
19. Strong verbal and written communication with the ability to build strong working relationships with families and professionals
20. Experience of working in collaboration with a range of internal and external services
Surrey has both urban and rural areas, and in this role you will be required to travel throughout the county. Therefore, candidates are required to have a valid driving licence to drive in the UK, access to a vehicle and be willing to travel across a wide geographical area. Reasonable adjustments where needed will be made for successful applicants who have a disability or long term health condition to enable them to fulfil the requirements of the job.
Contact Us
Please contact us for any questions relating to the role. This could be to discuss flexible working requests, transferable skills or any barriers to employment. For an informal discussion please contact Anika Raithatha or Stuart Lee by e-mail.
The job advert closes at 23:59 on 8th September 2025 with interviews to follow.
An enhanced DBS 'Disclosure and Barring Service' check for regulated activity (formerly known as CRB) and the Children's and Adults' Barred List checks will be required for this role.
We look forward to receiving your application,