Education Welfare Officer

Interim Principal Education Welfare Officer West Berkshire Council Contract: 6+ months ongoing Working Pattern: Hybrid (approximately 40% office-based) We are currently working with West Berkshire Council to recruit an experienced Interim Principal Education Welfare Officer to support their Education service. This is a senior leadership role with strategic and operational responsibility for school attendance, access to education, and statutory education functions across the borough. Key Responsibilities • Lead and manage education welfare and attendance services across the authority • Ensure the Local Authority meets all statutory duties relating to school attendance and access to education • Drive improvements in attendance outcomes for children and young people • Provide strategic direction and operational oversight to the service • Manage and develop staff, including direct line management responsibilities • Work collaboratively with schools, partners and internal stakeholders Requirements • Significant experience within Education Welfare or Attendance services at a senior level • Strong knowledge of statutory education responsibilities and compliance requirements • Proven leadership and management experience • Ability to work both strategically and operationally • Willingness to work flexibly, including occasional evenings if required • Able to travel independently across the borough This is an excellent opportunity to take on a key leadership role within a well-regarded Local Authority, supporting positive outcomes for children and young people