At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy development for Children's Services, translating national reforms into local strategies.
- Company: Join an award-winning council dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities to influence senior leaders and diverse stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while shaping important council policies.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy or strategy roles, ideally within Children’s Services or public sector.
The predicted salary is between 47181 - 50269 £ per year.
Position reference: 50146494
Directorate: Children’s Services | Service: Quality Assurance and Service Improvement
Salary: £47,181 - £50,269
Working Arrangements: Full time Monday-Friday
Hours per week: 37
Contract type: Permanent
Closing date: 10/07/2026 23:59
About The Post
Are you an experienced policy professional with a strong understanding of Children’s Services and the drive to translate national reform into local impact? This role requires you to provide expert policy support across the Children's Services directorate, responding to legislative change, statutory guidance and emerging reforms.
Your Role
- Lead the Children’s Services policy function, translating national reform, emerging statutory guidance and legislative change into clear local policy, plans and strategies.
- Provide strategic policy advice, briefings and updates to senior leaders and elected members, supporting effective decision‑making that ensures the best outcomes for children and young people.
- Lead on research, horizon scanning and analysis of emerging policy and legislative change, identifying local risks, opportunities and actions for Children’s Services.
- Use local and national data, performance and intelligence to inform policy and strategy development and shape service improvement.
- Manage relationships with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, including elected members, local partners, government departments and other policy professionals.
What We Offer
- A chance to take on a high‑profile role at a time of significant change, directly shaping how Children’s Services respond to reform and deliver improved outcomes.
- The opportunity to work closely with senior leaders, elected members and partners, giving you real influence across an important area of council policy.
- Interesting and varied work that offers the chance to develop expertise across policymaking, reform, strategy and partnership working.
- A supportive and collaborative working culture at an award‑winning council where your contributions are valued.
- A competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible working arrangements, generous leave and access to learning and development opportunities.
Requirements
- Proactive, responsive and flexible, with a passion for driving positive change for children, young people and their families.
- Strong experience in a policy, strategy or improvement role, ideally within Children’s Services or a related public sector environment.
- Good understanding of the issues, reforms and statutory framework across education, health, social care and early years and ability to interpret national change at a local level.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain productive relationships with diverse stakeholders across a complex multi‑agency environment.
- Comfortable working with data, performance information and wider intelligence to identify key messages, shape recommendations and support service improvement.
- Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail, with the capacity to manage competing priorities effectively.
- Hold a Level 6 qualification in a relevant subject, or demonstrate extensive equivalent experience supported by a relevant Level 3 qualification.
EEO Statement
We welcome applicants with past convictions and promote diversity and inclusion. All applicants will be considered fairly and without discrimination.
Children’s Services Policy Officer in Barnsley employer: Barnsley Council
Join an award-winning council as a Children’s Services Policy Officer, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping local policy and driving positive change for children and young people. With a supportive and collaborative work culture, competitive salary, and ample opportunities for professional development, this position offers a unique chance to influence significant reforms while working closely with senior leaders and diverse stakeholders. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and generous leave, making this an excellent employer for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Children’s Services Policy Officer in Barnsley
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Barnsley Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Barnsley Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Children’s Services Policy Officer in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Barnsley Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Barnsley Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Barnsley Council.
