At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable children and advocate for their educational needs.
- Company: Hackney’s Virtual School, dedicated to improving lives of looked after children.
- Benefits: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Join a supportive team focused on positive outcomes for children.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people and shape their futures.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of SEND policies and experience supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Hackney’s Virtual School has a long history of supporting some of the most vulnerable children in the borough. We are looking for a high‑performing individual who can support Hackney’s Children Looked After and ensure they receive the best educational experience possible.
Responsibilities
- Support children and young adults who are looked after, including those with Educational Health Care Plans.
- Advocate for children and collaborate closely with schools, specialists and SEND services.
- Apply knowledge of SEND and EHC policies and processes to service delivery.
- Monitor progress and targets through the statutory Personal Education Planning process.
- Build and maintain relationships across professional networks, engaging a wide range of stakeholders.
Qualifications
- Enhanced DBS Check.
- Knowledge of SEND and EHC policies and processes.
- Experience supporting young people across a range of educational providers.
- Commitment to best practice, service delivery and positive outcomes for children looked after.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Hackney Council works to eradicate discrimination on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. We also recognise that people can be disadvantaged by their social and economic circumstances, and we are committed to eliminating discrimination and disadvantage caused by social class. We particularly welcome applications from disabled people, as this group is currently underrepresented in our workforce. We also welcome those interested in flexible working.
Closing date for applications: 25 May 2026 (22:59)
Interview date: W/c 08 June 2026
Education Advocate – Virtual School in London employer: London Borough of Hackney
Hackney Council is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment, particularly for those passionate about advocating for vulnerable children. With a strong commitment to professional development and flexible working options, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children looked after. The collaborative culture encourages engagement with diverse stakeholders, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in delivering positive educational outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Education Advocate – Virtual School in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the education sector, especially those involved with SEND and EHC processes. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share your commitment to supporting looked-after children. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current SEND policies and practices. Being knowledgeable will not only impress interviewers but also show that you're serious about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Education Advocate – Virtual School in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Education Advocate. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Knowledge:Demonstrate your understanding of SEND and EHC policies in your written application. We want to see how your knowledge can contribute to supporting children looked after, so don’t hold back!
Be Personal and Engaging:Use a friendly tone in your application. We’re looking for someone who can build relationships, so let your personality shine through while maintaining professionalism.
Follow the Application Process:Make sure to apply through our website as instructed. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t forget to double-check your submission before hitting send!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Hackney
✨Know Your SEND Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Educational Health Care Plans (EHC). Be ready to discuss how these policies impact the children you'll be advocating for, and think of examples from your experience where you've successfully navigated these processes.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to share specific instances where you've advocated for young people in educational settings. Highlight how you collaborated with schools and specialists to ensure positive outcomes. This will demonstrate your commitment to best practices and your ability to build relationships across professional networks.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you can engage a wide range of stakeholders effectively. During the interview, discuss strategies you've used to maintain relationships with various professionals. This shows that you understand the importance of collaboration in supporting looked-after children.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to monitor progress through Personal Education Planning. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would address them, showcasing your proactive approach to service delivery.
