Education welfare officer

As an education welfare officer, you'll:

• work closely with school staff to identify and fix attendance problems
•  meet parents and pupils at school or home to explain how you can help them
•  attend magistrates' court when required
•  arrange education for pupils who are excluded
•  handle sensitive personal information correctly and update records

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• knowledge of psychology
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• sensitivity and understanding
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

With experience and training you could become a team leader, senior education welfare officer or a head of service.

You could also train for a career in social services, the probation service, youth work or pastoral care.