Officer Education & Childcare Place

As a Senior Officer for Education and Childcare places you will play a key role in ensuring children and young people across Somerset have access to the education and childcare provision they need. Working at the heart of strategic planning, you will use data, demographic intelligence ad stake holder engagement to shape future provision, support major projects and help deliver Somerset's statutory responsibilities for education sufficiency. How You'll Make a Difference

• Help ensure children and young people can access the right education places by supporting statutory processes, communications and stakeholder engagement.
• Contribute to the development of education place planning, coordinating consultations, analysing options and supporting timely decision-making.
• Use data, insight and forecasting to identify future demand, inform strategies and support Department for Education returns.
• Support the development of plans, strategies, funding bids and reports that help shape education provision across Somerset.
• Build strong partnerships with schools, the Department for Education and other stakeholders to deliver high-quality, sustainable services and improvements.
  
  Experience working within education, local government, planning, commissioning or a similar strategic environment.
• Knowledge of the education sector and the ability to build strong relationships with schools and education partners.
• Understanding of education planning, including demographics, transport, housing, funding and policy.
• Experience delivering projects, leading change and driving improvements in education or public sector settings.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, communication and report-writing skills.
• Ability to analyse data, support decision-making and manage priorities effectively.
• Relevant degree or equivalent professional experience.
  
  At Somerset Council, we're a progressive organisation committed to improving lives and shaping better services for our communities. Based in one of England's most beautiful counties, it's a great place to build your career and enjoy an excellent quality of life.
• Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave.
• Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), one of the UK's most enhanced and secure pension schemes.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance, where service needs allow.
• Health and wellbeing support, including access to confidential employee assistance services.
• Paid volunteering opportunities, helping you make a difference both inside and outside of work.