Welfare Officer

Qualifications

Whilst no formal qualifications are not strictly necessary, the candidate needs to be able to demonstrate the experience and skills required to perform the role.

In addition, under Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), the DSL must be appropriately trained. It is therefore expected that the candidate would undertake all relevant training as soon as possible after appointment and engage in a process of updating this as is necessary.

Skills and Knowledge

• In-depth knowledge of statutory safeguarding and child protection guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education, enabling effective fulfilment of the Designated Safeguarding Lead role.
• Strong understanding of child protection thresholds, referral pathways and escalation processes, including early help, social care and multi-agency safeguarding arrangements.
• Ability to manage safeguarding concerns and disclosures using professional judgement to secure timely referrals, effective intervention and positive outcomes for children.
• Knowledge of safeguarding record-keeping requirements, including maintaining accurate, confidential and inspection-ready records and reports.
• Knowledge of attendance legislation, Children Missing in Education procedures and safeguarding links to attendance and punctuality.
• Good numeracy/literacy skills
• Full working knowledge of relevant polices/codes of practice and awareness of relevant legislation??
• Ability to analyse attendance data using school systems to identify patterns of concern and contribute to targeted intervention strategies.
• Knowledge of admissions processes and statutory requirements, including liaison with local authorities and accurate management of pupil records.
• Competence in using school information systems (including SIMS and SAM) to maintain accurate data, generate reports and support compliance.
• Skills in leading and contributing to multi-agency meetings, including Child Protection conferences, core groups and Team Around the Family meetings.
• Ability to complete referrals and professional documentation (including MARFs) clearly, accurately and in line with statutory guidance.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with pupils, parents, carers, staff and external professionals.
• Ability to build trusting relationships with families while providing appropriate challenge to address attendance, behaviour and safeguarding concerns.
• Knowledge of family support approaches that reduce barriers to learning, promote engagement and support pupil wellbeing.
• Ability to support reintegration, transition and continuity of support for vulnerable pupils following absence, exclusion or placement change.
• Knowledge of data protection legislation, information sharing principles and GDPR requirements within a safeguarding context.
• Ability to lead and coordinate Subject Access Requests and manage sensitive information lawfully and securely.
• Strong organisational skills to manage competing priorities, respond to emerging risk and meet statutory deadlines.
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, inclusion and professional standards, including ongoing training and reflective practice.