Virtual School Officer

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the London Borough of Hillingdon as a Virtual School Officer. We are looking for a committed and passionate individual to work collaboratively with the Virtual School team and Headteacher to improve educational outcomes for children known to Social Care. The role will focus on key areas including admissions, attendance, attainment, progress, tuition, enrichment, and promoting inclusion.

You will be responsible for managing a caseload of Looked After Children, tracking their educational progress from Early Years through to post-16 education, ensuring they receive the necessary support to achieve their potential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive improvements in attainment and progress for children known to Social Care, ensuring their access to high-quality education and support.

• Oversee key areas including admissions, attendance, tuition, enrichment activities, and inclusion initiatives.

• Manage a caseload of Looked After Children, tracking their progress and attainment to inform targeted support and intervention.

• Support the development and implementation of policies and procedures that promote the educational success of children known to Social Care.

• Deliver training and guidance to school staff, social workers, foster carers, key workers, and wider stakeholders to enhance their understanding of the needs of Looked After Children.

• Plan and coordinate enrichment and extra-curricular learning opportunities to support the holistic development of children and young people.

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with partner agencies, ensuring a joined-up approach to service delivery for children known to Social Care.

• Provide support to Virtual School Lead Practitioners in delivering their specialist areas of responsibility.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and strategic direction of the Hillingdon Virtual School.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A degree or equivalent qualification.

• Minimum of one year’s experience within the UK education system, Virtual School, or an education support service.

• Experience of working with vulnerable children or young people, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and/or English as an Additional Language (EAL).

• Strong understanding of the key issues affecting the education of children known to Social Care.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Access.

Skills and Competencies:

• A proactive and positive approach to problem-solving with a "can-do" attitude.

• Ability to work flexibly and respond effectively to changing priorities.

• Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with a range of stakeholders.

• A commitment to excellent customer service and engaging with key client groups to support children’s education.

• Ability to engage directly with children and young people, providing support within their educational settings.

• Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life.
• 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full time staff.
• Generous Holiday Entitlement – You will receive a minimum of 26 days annual leave each year, in addition to bank holidays. This entitlement increases to a maximum 37 days after 10 years of service.

• Hillingdon Sport Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough.
• Cycle Purchase Scheme – Promote eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme.
• Discount on Golf Fees – Enjoy up to 30% discounts on green fees at council owned golf courses.
• Financial Benefits – Secure your future with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union.
• Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits.
• Eye Care – We contribute towards eye tests and lenses for Display Screen Equipment
• Mental Health Support – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues.
• Support and Counselling Services – Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family.

• Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre.