At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a caseload of Looked After Children, ensuring their educational support and progress.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Hillingdon, dedicated to supporting vulnerable children in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a rewarding role with opportunities for professional development and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree level education, Qualified Teacher status, and experience with vulnerable children required.
- Other info: Remote work options available; must have an EU work permit.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Virtual School Officer will manage a caseload of around 35 Looked After Children cared for by The London Borough of Hillingdon. They ensure these children have the support to overcome barriers to their learning and achieve their full potential.
Responsibilities include:
- Tracking and monitoring progress and attendance
- Arranging and chairing Personal Education Planning meetings
- Writing concise reports
- Liaising with foster carers, social workers, teachers, and support services
Qualifications:
- Degree Level or equivalent
- Qualified Teacher status
- Postgraduate qualification in education/research related to working with vulnerable children or in multi-agency settings
Experience:
- At least 1 year of experience working within the UK education system or in a virtual school/support service
- Experience working with vulnerable children, including those with SEND or EAL
Knowledge & Skills:
- Understanding of issues related to education of Looked After Children and Care Leavers
- Knowledge of health & safety procedures
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access
- Research skills related to education and training
- Ability to understand data management systems
- Knowledge of Safeguarding and Child Protection
- Experience in multi-agency working
- Ability to undertake direct work with children and young people
Virtual School Education Officer – SO1 employer: London Borough of Hillingdon
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Hillingdon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Virtual School Education Officer – SO1
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs and challenges faced by Looked After Children. Understanding their unique circumstances will help you demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with vulnerable children. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial when discussing your experience and approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with multi-agency collaboration. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've worked alongside social workers, teachers, and other professionals to support children's educational needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current policies and best practices related to safeguarding and child protection. Being knowledgeable about these areas will not only enhance your application but also show your dedication to the welfare of the children you'll be working with.
We think you need these skills to ace Virtual School Education Officer – SO1
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Virtual School Education Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience working within the UK education system, particularly with vulnerable children. Provide specific examples of how you've supported their learning and development.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and any relevant research skills. Discuss your understanding of safeguarding and child protection, as well as your ability to work in multi-agency settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a concise cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for supporting Looked After Children. Use this opportunity to explain why you are a great fit for the role and how you can contribute to the London Borough of Hillingdon.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Hillingdon
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Virtual School Education Officer does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around supporting Looked After Children and liaising with various stakeholders.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your experience working within the UK education system or in a virtual school. Highlight specific examples where you've supported vulnerable children, particularly those with SEND or EAL.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Safeguarding
Be ready to talk about safeguarding and child protection. This is crucial for the role, so ensure you can articulate your understanding of these issues and how they relate to the education of Looked After Children.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values, especially regarding support for vulnerable children.