KS4 & SEND Advisory Officer

About the role Join Brent Virtual School as a KS4 & SEND Advisory Officer, supporting children looked after to achieve their potential in education. This varied temporary secondment brings together Key Stage 4 advisory work and specialist SEND oversight. You will help young people stay engaged in learning, access the support they need, achieve their qualifications and move confidently into post-16 opportunities.
In this role, you will:
Lead educational oversight of the Key Stage 4 cohort, monitoring attendance, progress, attainment and educational stability.
Work with schools and partners to strengthen Personal Education Plans, coordinate targeted support and improve GCSE and equivalent outcomes.
Provide specialist advice and oversight for children and young people with SEND, including EHCP reviews and specialist or out-of-borough provision.
Help prevent exclusions and gaps in education, and support successful Year 11 transitions into education, employment or training.

You will work closely with designated teachers, SENCOs, social workers, carers, education providers and other professionals, offering practical advice and constructive challenge to remove barriers to learning.

About you We are looking for someone who:
Has substantial experience supporting vulnerable children and young people in education, SEND, social care or a related setting.
Understands Key Stage 4 education, GCSE pathways and the barriers affecting attendance, achievement and progression.
Has knowledge of SEND requirements, EHCPs and the SEND Code of Practice, alongside an understanding of children looked after.
Can work confidently with schools, carers and multi-agency partners to coordinate support and challenge where needed.
Can interpret pupil and cohort information, prioritise a varied caseload and develop effective educational interventions.
Communicates clearly, builds positive relationships and keeps children's views and aspirations central to planning.

A relevant Level 3 qualification in SEND, education, health or a related field, or equivalent professional experience, is required.

Brent is one of the most diverse boroughs in the country, with communities, ideas and experiences from across the world helping to shape who we are. Working here means joining a council that is focused on fairness, open to new thinking and committed to improving life for local people. Our values shape how we work and what people can expect from us. We collaborate proactively, lead inclusively, embrace change, are bold and curious, and celebrate and share our success. For people who care about public service and want their work to matter, Brent offers the chance to make a meaningful difference.

Why join us? We know people do their best work when they feel valued, supported and able to grow. At Brent, you will benefit from: 27 days' annual leave, rising with length of service, plus bank holidays
Local Government Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
Hybrid and flexible working options available for most roles
Supportive family-friendly policies, including carers' leave, paternity leave and compassionate leave for eligible employees
Health and wellbeing support, including eye test support and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
Financial wellbeing support, including education sessions, childcare deposit loans and season ticket loans
Travel support, including affordable parking nearby, a Cycle to Work scheme and onsite facilities
Learning and development opportunities to support your career
Access to My Brent Rewards with exclusive discounts on shopping, travel, leisure and entertainment