Case Officer (Vulnerable Pupils)

This is an exciting time to be joining Havering's Assessment & Placement Service, whose role within the wider SEND and Alternative Provision Service is to manage the statutory processes relating to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The service has grown significantly, with a varied range of new roles created which contribute to a strong sense of belonging within the service, support and development for all service members, and many opportunities for career progression.

The Case Officer (Vulnerable Groups) is responsible for the direct oversight and EHCP case management of a defined cohort of children and young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) who are potentially particularly vulnerable due to the complexity of their needs and circumstances. This includes, but is not limited to, children and young people who are:

• Educated Other Than at School (EOTAS)
• Without a school place or at risk of placement breakdown
• Subject to complex safeguarding, attendance or health-related risks
• Requiring bespoke or non-standard provision arrangements

The role requires a high level of professional judgement, autonomy and accountability, operating within the statutory SEND framework to ensure lawful, timely and high-quality decision-making that improves outcomes for children and young people while managing legal, financial and reputational risk to the Council.

The Case Officer (Vulnerable Groups) does not have line management responsibility but is a key figure within the service, providing expert oversight of complex cases and acting as a point of professional reference for colleagues and managers. We are seeking applications from candidates with a passion for supporting vulnerable children and young people, who have knowledge of the education system, and who have strong written and oral communications skills and who are highly organised.

As well as the chance to support positive outcomes for children and young people with SEND, becoming a part of Havering's SEND and Alternative Provision Service will offer:

• The chance to be part of a friendly, supportive Service of around 30 people, working closely with the rest of the 120-strong SEND and Alternative Provision Service
• An excellent induction package
• Dedicated business support
• Access to cutting-edge AI tools to support productivity and wellbeing
• Regular supervision
• Protected Continuing Professional Development time, including as part of Havering's '10 Days of Learning'
• An excellent balance between home/flexible working arrangements and time together as a team to create, collaborate and develop a sense of belonging
• Easily accessible workspaces
• Excellent transport links to inner and outer London including via the Elizabeth Line, as well as to Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas
• High quality IT equipment and responsive IT support
• There is flexibility on start dates.

An enhanced DBS check is required for this post. The closing date for the receipt of applications is 20/8/26.

We want everyone to choose Havering. When you apply for a job with us, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. Our residents and service users come from all walks of life, and so do our employees.

The London Borough of Havering has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

With its excellent transport links into central London, extensive town centre regeneration and the highest concentration of green space anywhere in London, Havering has a unique offer as a place to live, work and visit. By making the most of its position and opportunities, Havering is becoming a hub for start-ups and expanding businesses, as well as construction, logistics, engineering and manufacturing industries.