Education Welfare Lead: Attendance & Engagement

Outwood Academy Bydales; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Outwood Academy Bydales in Sunderland is seeking an Education Welfare Officer/Attendance Manager to lead our attendance team and implement strategies to improve student access to learning.

This senior role requires expertise in legislation, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage families in difficult circumstances. You will manage home visits, coordinate with safeguarding partners, and produce regular data reports for senior leaders to drive decisions.

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold a Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
• Experience in education welfare, social work, or counselling with parents and children.
• Strong record keeping and report writing skills.
• Knowledge of the legislative framework governing school attendance.
• Resilience and ability to work in challenging, conflict-ridden situations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the attendance team and drive whole-school attendance strategies.
• Conduct home visits and coordinate with safeguarding agencies.
• Identify cases for court referrals or Penalty Notices and prepare evidence.
• Prepare and analyse regular attendance data reports for senior leadership.
• Chair attendance panels and fast-track meetings.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Data reporting

Education

Level 3 qualification or equivalent

Tools

Case management system

Safeguarding procedures

Job description

Outwood Academy Bydales in Sunderland is seeking an Education Welfare Officer/Attendance Manager to lead our attendance team and implement strategies to improve student access to learning.

This senior role requires expertise in legislation, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to engage families in difficult circumstances. You will manage home visits, coordinate with safeguarding partners, and produce regular data reports for senior leaders to drive decisions.