Education Inclusion Officer

Overview

As an Education Inclusion Officer, you will travel to district and school sites to monitor exclusions data, provide legislative guidance, and challenge schools on unlawful or poor practice. You will work with families, schools, and agencies to navigate the SEND pathway and local offer resources, supporting provision for SEND and vulnerable pupils. The role involves partnerships with Alternative Provision panels, attending disciplinary and advisory meetings, and maintaining accurate data in the MRI system. This permanent post contributes to a county-wide mission to improve inclusion and attainment for children and young people.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working
• permanent role
• salary in range 45091-49282/year
• opportunities to work with multiple educational partners
• focus on safeguarding and inclusion
• supportive work environment

Responsibilities

• Travel to district-based colleagues and schools to establish data collection and monitor exclusions (fixed-term and permanent)
• Provide specialist legislative information and guidance to head teachers, governors, parents, LA colleagues, and other agencies
• Challenge school leaders on unlawful or poor practice related to exclusions within DfE guidance and criminal law
• Signpost schools and parents to relevant support services per Local Offer and SEND Pathway when appropriate
• Collaborate with Alternative Provision Panel to agree provision for children and young people, including those with SEND
• Provide high-quality information and advice to the Council and Senior Officers
• Represent the Local Authority at governors’ disciplinary committees, independent review panels, SEND mediation meetings, and SEND tribunals regarding permanent exclusions
• Manage and document cases of excluded children using the MRI database with up-to-date records

Key requirements

• Relevant educational qualification and/or experience as a caseworker, EWO or similar role in education
• Understanding of factors influencing behaviour and early intervention strategies
• Knowledge of exclusion procedures, legal framework, Fair Access Protocol, DfE guidance on exclusion
• Ability to work with families, professionals, and schools to effect positive change
• Knowledge of safeguarding children in education settings
• Ability to use initiative and take responsibility
• Ability to lead or collaborate with professionals from statutory and voluntary agencies
• Ability to interpret complex situations and apply solution-focused problem solving
• Degree in an appropriate discipline or equivalent professional qualification (e.g., social work or teaching) or equivalent experience
• Understanding of exclusion procedures and safeguarding emphasis in education settings

• Partnership working with families and professionals
• Analytical and data interpretation
• Communication and advocacy
• Data collection and monitoring
• MRI database management
• Knowledge of DfE guidance and safeguarding frameworks

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