Vulnerable Learners Officer

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to support schools in implementing inclusive practices, ensuring that vulnerable learners remain in mainstream education. This role will involve close collaboration with schools, external agencies, and teams across Hillingdon Council to improve education outcomes for children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

• Support schools in adopting inclusive approaches to keep vulnerable learners engaged in mainstream education.
• Work in partnership with schools, external agencies, and council service directorates to improve education outcomes for at-risk children and young people.
• Provide high-quality advice and guidance to parents and pupils regarding exclusions and their entitlement to school education.
• Undertake individual casework with vulnerable children and young people, including attending relevant planning and professional meetings.
• Liaise with Attendance Support, the Virtual School, and other teams to ensure that children not receiving an appropriate education or removed from a school roll are reintegrated without delay.
• Monitor and support schools in developing inclusive strategies and effective use of Alternative Provision.
• Maintain accurate data systems on exclusions, suspensions, and alternative provision, providing timely performance analysis and reporting.
• Work in partnership with families to identify and address needs, reducing the risk of negative outcomes for children and young people.

About You

• Evidence of continued professional development.
• Experience of working with schools, children, and families in an advisory, support, or casework role.
• Proven ability to analyse and utilise a range of data to inform intervention planning.
• Experience in managing school inclusion projects or leading inclusion units.
• Experience in delivering training and presenting information to a variety of audiences.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of legislation and regulations related to pupil registration, Elective Home Education, and exclusions.
• Ability to deliver high-quality training and guidance to school leaders.
• Excellent negotiation and influencing skills when working with school staff and external partners.
• Strong data analysis skills to assess school performance, identify trends, and develop solutions.

Key Competencies

• A proactive and solution-focused approach.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in working practices.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• A commitment to high standards of customer care and professional development.

Why Join Us?

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable learners and have the skills and experience required for this role, we would love to hear from you.

• 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.