Attendance Officer & Pastoral Care Lead (Deputy DSL)
Woodpecker Court is seeking a committed and enthusiastic Attendance Officer & Pastoral Care Lead (Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead) to join our dedicated team.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant difference to the lives of young people by promoting attendance, engagement, wellbeing and positive outcomes. Working closely with students, families, staff and external agencies, you will play a key role in identifying and overcoming barriers to learning while supporting a strong safeguarding culture.
Key responsibilities
- Lead attendance monitoring and intervention, supporting students at risk of persistent absence or disengagement
- Work proactively with families, leading attendance meetings and undertaking home visits where appropriate
- Ensure accurate recording, tracking and reporting of attendance data to inform support and intervention
- Monitor attendance for hybrid learners and those on work experience placements
- Implement and review reduced timetables and reintegration programmes to improve engagement and outcomes
- Identify and address barriers to learning and attendance in partnership with staff and families
- Support the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) in maintaining effective safeguarding systems and procedures
- Act as a safeguarding point of contact for staff and contribute to a strong safeguarding culture
- Work with external agencies to ensure timely and appropriate support for students
About you
You will have experience working with children or young people, strong communication and organisational skills, and a good understanding of attendance, inclusion and safeguarding. Experience in specialist, SEMH, SEND or alternative provision settings is desirable.
You will build positive relationships with students and families, remain calm under pressure, and show a commitment to improving outcomes. A nurturing, inclusive and proactive approach is essential.
Hours and salary
40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:25am–4:45pm. Term time plus 5 days (39 weeks). Salary £29,750 FTE (Kent Scheme KS E), actual salary £25,005.62 pro rata.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and follow safer recruitment practices in line with KCSIE 2025. The role is subject to an enhanced DBS check, references and pre-employment checks. It is a criminal offence to apply if barred from regulated activity with children. Online checks will be completed for shortlisted candidates.
