Principal Appeals Officer

Our goal is to ensure proper and lawful governance of around 600 school admission appeal and exclusion appeal hearings per annum before independent statutory appeals panels and the Council's (Home to School Transport) Appeals Committee. To that end, we are seeking a highly organised and resilient professional to join our democratic team Key Responsibilities; To manage a small team of Senior Appeals Officers and lead a wider team of dedicated business support officers To ensure appeals are conducted lawfully, fairly and within statutory timescales. To provide governance and procedural advice to independent appeal panel members, councillors, officers, schools, parents/carers and members of the public regarding the appeals processes. To prepare and quality-assure appeal documentation, including agendas, case papers and decision letters. To act as Clerk to appeal hearings, providing clear, accurate and impartial procedural advice. To liaise with parents/carers, schools, panel members,
presenting officers and other stakeholders in a sensitive and professional manner. To ensure accurate record keeping and reporting of outcomes, contributing to service performance monitoring and audits. To keep up to date with changes in education legislation, statutory guidance and case law. To develop opportunities for income generation and the commercialisation of aspects of the service

Experience of working with education admissions, appeals, governance or clerkship in a local authority or similar setting. Knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory guidance relating to school admissions, exclusions and transport appeals (or a willingness to develop this knowledge quickly). The ability to provide clear, impartial procedural advice to senior officers, panel members and the public. Strong administrative skills and experience of managing large caseloads. Experience of developing income generation opportunities, driving process and systems efficiencies and reducing costs Excellent written and verbal communication skills A positive and supportive outlook and approach with proven leadership skills and experience.