At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning for school places and manage consultations across Walsall.
- Company: Walsall Council, an outstanding local authority focused on children's welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a team committed to safeguarding and improving outcomes for children.
- Why this job: Shape education provision and ensure children have access to the right schools.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of education legislation and proven data analysis skills.
The predicted salary is between 53051 - 56293 £ per year.
Walsall Council is seeking an experienced and confident Pupil Place Planning Manager to lead the strategic planning and delivery of sufficient school places across the borough. This is a key role within the Access service, supporting the Council’s statutory responsibilities for early years, primary, secondary, post-16 and specialist provision.
The postholder will provide specialist advice, analyse and interpret complex data, prepare pupil forecasts, lead school organisation and sufficiency planning, and work closely with schools, senior leaders, elected members, the DfE and other partners. The role also includes managing staff, leading consultations, supporting capital projects, and ensuring services are delivered effectively, within budget and in line with statutory requirements.
We are looking for someone with strong knowledge of education legislation, school organisation, admissions and sufficiency planning, alongside proven experience of using data to inform strategic decisions. You will be an effective communicator and leader, able to build productive relationships, manage competing priorities, resolve complex issues and present clear advice to a range of audiences.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and solution-focused professional to play a leading role in shaping education provision across Walsall and ensuring children and young people have access to the right school places, in the right locations, at the right time.
Important note: When completing your online application form, you will be asked to enter supporting information. You must enter a detailed supporting information statement describing how your skills, abilities and experience meet the specific criteria included in the employee specification. If you do not include a supporting information statement, you will not be shortlisted. Please also ensure that you complete the work history and qualifications sections of your application form. Please do not add a CV as we do not accept them.
At Walsall Council, we appreciate that AI can be a useful tool for ideas or guidance. However, we encourage you to make sure your application reflects your own voice and experiences. Over-reliance on AI can make responses feel less personal, and we really want to understand what makes you unique. Your experiences, skills, and perspective are what set you apart, so please ensure your application as a whole – particularly your ‘Supporting Information’ – reflects your own voice.
Further information: For further information or a conversation relating to the application, please contact Alex Groom, Admissions & Education Sufficiency Service Manager, at alex.groom@walsall.gov.uk.
This post is covered by the Government’s Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers. The post holder will be required to communicate verbally with customers and provide advice and/or information in accurate spoken English.
Walsall Council takes seriously the responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all the children, young people and vulnerable adults entrusted to our care and it is our expectation that all staff will share this commitment. We will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce. Completion of an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check is a requirement for working with children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Note: Applicants appointed to posts that require an enhanced DBS clearance must declare any periods of time that they have lived, studied or worked abroad and be prepared to provide an Overseas Criminal Records Certificate (OCRC) or a Statement of Good Conduct (SOGC) relating to anytime they were overseas.
Walsall Council’s Children’s Services are the only Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ local authority in the Black Country. During a visit in May 2025, Inspectors described Walsall Council as a place where children were at the heart of. The council’s journey of continuous improvement started in 2017 and has since transformed into a service with a clear vision, clear priorities and a clear plan, all informed by the views of our staff and children. Staff are at the core of delivering great outcomes for children and young people in Walsall, which is underpinned by our Walsall Right 4 Children vision. The latest Ofsted inspection demonstrated that staff in children’s services are proud to work for Walsall Council and feel supported to do great work.
Closing date: Sunday 4th October 2026
Pupil Place Planning Manager - Ref: CH07326 in Walsall employer: Walsall Community Network
Walsall Council is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, empowering Project Managers to lead transformative initiatives that directly impact the community. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer opportunities for professional development and the chance to contribute to meaningful change within the council's ambitious transformation programme. Located in Walsall, our team values diversity and encourages unique perspectives, making it a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pupil Place Planning Manager - Ref: CH07326 in Walsall
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Walsall Community Network, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Walsall Community Network and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Pupil Place Planning Manager - Ref: CH07326 in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Walsall Community Network and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Walsall Community Network
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Walsall Community Network, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Walsall Community Network.
