At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning for school places and support educational provision across Walsall.
- Company: Walsall Council, an Ofsted 'Outstanding' local authority dedicated to children's welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a motivated team committed to continuous improvement and safeguarding children.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in shaping education for children and young people in Walsall.
- Qualifications: Experience in education legislation, data analysis, and effective communication 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.
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: WMJobs
Worcestershire County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment for Social Workers in the picturesque Malvern Hills area. With a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee well-being, you will thrive in a culture that values collaboration and innovation. Join a dedicated team where your contributions are recognised and where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those you support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pupil Place Planning Manager - Ref: CH07326 in Walsall
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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.
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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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
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✨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.
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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!
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