Education Lead Officer Children with a Social Worker (Virtual School)
Job description
Post Ref: CC915
Please note: Internal, at risk or redeployee applicants will be seen in the first instance.
The Virtual School works with schools, social care and partner agencies to improve educational outcomes for vulnerable children and young people across Calderdale, with a particular focus on attendance, attainment and achievement for children with a social worker.
We are seeking to recruit an Education Lead Officer for Children with a Social Worker to provide strategic leadership for the Virtual School’s extended duty and support the Virtual School Head in driving improved outcomes for this cohort.
The successful candidate will lead partnership working across education and social care, using data, challenge and support to improve attendance, attainment, inclusion and engagement. You will work with schools, early years settings, colleges and professionals to address barriers to learning, promote effective practice and ensure education remains central to planning for children in need and those subject to child protection plans.
We are looking for an experienced and passionate professional who holds a recognised Teaching Qualification with QTS or a Social Work Degree.
You will have a strong understanding of safeguarding, child protection and relevant legislation, alongside excellent communication, analytical and relationship-building skills. Leadership or management experience, including leading teams, projects, service improvements or strategic partnerships, would be highly desirable. Experience of working across Key Stages 1 to 4 and supporting children in need is also desirable.
A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes is essential, although reasonable adjustments will be considered for applicants with a disability.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff to share this commitment. Applicants to this post will require an Enhanced DBS with Children's Barred List check before the appointment is confirmed.
Closing Date: Monday 20th July 2026
Interview Date: w/c 27 July 2026
This role is based in the UK. Home Office guidance states that candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment, either as a UK or Irish citizen, under the EU Settlement scheme or having secured any other relevant work visa.
If you do not have the right to work in the UK, you must consider your own eligibility for sponsorship for a particular role through the Skilled Worker visa route before applying. To be eligible for sponsorship you'll usually need to be paid the standard salary rate of at least £41,700 per year (unless exceptions apply) and meet the other eligibility criteria. Ensure you are eligible before applying.
Calderdale will reimburse the post holders required professional membership, annually.
We may utilise digital interview methods.
As part of our Vision (https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision/) we aim to be a talented, resilient and inclusive community. We welcome applications from all and offer a variety of flexible working / job share opportunities.
All applications are anonymised before being seen by the selection panel.
As part of our fair recruitment process, we ask that all applications are written by the candidate and that Artificial Intelligence (AI) use is limited, unless assistance is required as a reasonable adjustment for a disability. Content should be truthful, accurate, evidence based and not embellished – see guidance.
For support on your application please read our Application Booklet or visit our Employment Hub.