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- Tasks: Support children missing education by managing cases and liaising with families and schools.
- Company: Join Reading Borough Council, a diverse and inclusive employer committed to safeguarding children.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, flexible working, and a supportive environment for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and help them access their full educational potential.
- Qualifications: A-Level education or equivalent, strong communication skills, and knowledge of safeguarding.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team dedicated to improving outcomes for children in Reading.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We are looking for a Children Missing Education (CME) Officer to join our Education Access Team. This is a vital role ensuring that children who are missing education are identified, safeguarded, and supported back into learning. We seek the best talent from the widest pool of people as diversity and inclusion is the key to our success. Reading Borough Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to the recruitment and continued employment of people with disabilities.
About the role
This position plays a key role in safeguarding and supporting children who are not accessing education. Working closely with schools, families, and multi-agency partners, the role ensures every child receives their full educational entitlement.
Key responsibilities
- Managing CME cases and safeguarding concerns, escalating issues where necessary.
- Conducting welfare checks and liaising with families to support reintegration into education.
- Tracking and monitoring CME cases, maintaining accurate records and reporting.
- Providing advice and guidance to schools and partners on best practice.
- Organising and attending meetings with parents, schools, and stakeholders to resolve complex cases.
About you
We need someone who is passionate about improving outcomes for children and can work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. You’ll be confident, approachable, and able to manage a varied caseload.
Essential skills and experience
- Educated to A-Level standard or equivalent.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Knowledge of education legislation, safeguarding, and CME guidance.
- Ability to prioritise tasks, work independently, and meet deadlines.
- Commitment to safeguarding and equal opportunities.
You’ll be part of a team that relies on each individual to play their part to the best of their ability. As well as the colleagues that you work closely with every day, you’ll also be part of Team Reading, playing your personal part in making Reading a successful and vibrant place.
Our vision
Our vision is to ensure that Reading realises its potential as a great place to live, work and play, and that everyone shares the benefits of this success.
Values and behaviours
- Work Together as one team - work collaboratively, with each other and with our partners, and demonstrate the Team Reading values in everything we do.
- Drive Efficiency - show initiative, be adaptable to change and put forward ideas to help improve delivery and efficiency.
- Take responsibility for our own learning and development and for reaching our potential.
- Be Ambitious - be demanding of our own performance – striving to be even better – and be prepared to engage with and challenge leaders in a constructive and positive way.
- Make a Difference to Reading - maintain the highest levels of customer service and be flexible and willing to provide the services needed at the time they are needed.
Our offer
We offer a supportive environment to grow and develop your career with the opportunity to put your ideas across. Innovation and ambition is strongly encouraged, and you’ll get a great feel for that working in our friendly and collaborative environment.
Benefits
- Generous holiday entitlement - 25 days holiday each year plus bank holidays - rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service and 33 days after 10 years’ service, with the option to buy additional leave.
- A wide range of flexible working opportunities.
- Modern working environment at the Civic Offices in the heart of Reading.
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Life Assurance - three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS).
- On-site day nursery (Kennet Day nursery) rated outstanding by Ofsted.
- Season Ticket Loan - a loan to help with the cost of your rail or bus journey, to and from work.
- Lease car salary sacrifice scheme allowing you to lease a brand new, greener car for three years. The monthly fee includes insurance, servicing and road tax.
Closing Date: Sunday 11th January 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 29th January 2026
Interview Process: To be confirmed
Children Missing Education Officer employer: Reading Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Reading Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Children Missing Education Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those involved with safeguarding and children’s services. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your knowledge of education legislation and safeguarding practices. We recommend having real-life examples ready to showcase how you’ve handled similar situations in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for making a difference! During interviews, express your commitment to improving outcomes for children and your understanding of the challenges they face. This will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the vibrant community in Reading.
We think you need these skills to ace Children Missing Education Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Children Missing Education Officer. We want to see your passion for improving outcomes for children shine through!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key in this role, use your written application to demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. We love seeing candidates who can articulate their thoughts well!
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience in safeguarding or working with children, make sure to mention it! We’re looking for someone who understands the importance of supporting children back into education, so share any relevant stories or achievements.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this vital role in our Education Access Team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on education legislation, safeguarding policies, and CME guidance. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you're serious about the role and understand the challenges involved.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your passion for improving outcomes for children shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to safeguarding and supporting children who are missing education.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific cases or challenges. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully managed similar situations, and be ready to discuss your thought process and actions.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to work collaboratively by discussing how you would engage with schools, families, and multi-agency partners. Highlight any previous experience you have in building relationships and resolving complex issues.
