Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Southend City Council are seeking to appoint an Education Access Advisor to join the Education Access Team on a full time and fixed term contract basis (term time only until 31^st July 2025). This role is within an established team and is being offered on a mobile work pattern (blend of working from home, visiting schools / educational settings and in the office). 

As an Education Access Advisor, you will deliver a high quality, individual educational programme for vulnerable learners (ages 5-16) as provided by the school, who are unable to access their education through school, as a result of medical needs, social and emotional challenges, or otherwise. You will ensure the delivery of a broad and balanced, relevant, motivating and differentiated curriculums for all learners, that is personalised to their needs and maximises their educational potential in line with individual health needs and/or associated risks. You will deliver and support a range of subjects through direct teaching, delivery of e-learning and other opportunities, in a one-to-one setting or in groups in a variety of locations, including community bases, school bases and lone working in pupil’s homes.

As an Education Access Advisor, you will lead on, chair and regularly review child Health Care Plans that provide assurances for a suitable education and liaise with schools, partners and families to ensure plans remain current and suitable for the child’s educational and health needs.

Although this role is offered as mobile, the successful candidate will be predominantly out and about visiting a number of locations / school settings / communities within and outside the city.

Candidates must have the ability to independently travel in and outside of Southend.

To be successful in this role, previous experience of working in another local authority or in a school/education setting would be essential. You need to be able to communicate effectively and professionally with families, headteachers, parent / carers, educational leaders and partner agencies both verbally and in writing. It is essential that you can build meaningful relationships with key stakeholders across all levels as you will be liaising with various people from different backgrounds.

To be considered for this role, it is vital that you have knowledge of SEN processes in an educational setting. You must be well organised, able to use efficient time management systems as well be able to prioritise and meet deadlines. It is also essential that you have good understanding of working together to safeguard children, and relevant legislation and DfE statutory guidance:  Education Acts; ‘Ensuring a good education for children who cannot attend school because of health needs.

Your application will not be considered if you do not have either:

• HTLA qualification (or equivalent)

                                   OR

• At least two years of experience with delivering and supporting students in a school setting

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

If you would like a copy of the Job Description, please click here

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to.

All applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.