Attendance Support Worker

Dubizzle Limited; Southampton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A supportive secondary school in Southampton is seeking an Attendance Support Officer to manage pupil attendance and support the school’s safeguarding responsibilities. This role involves maintaining accurate records, communicating with parents, and collaborating with staff to improve pupil outcomes. The successful candidate will excel in organization, possess strong communication skills, and handle sensitive information with confidence. Opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment are offered, along with a variety of employee benefits.

Benefits

Healthcare Cash Plan options

Free on-site gym

Electric Car Scheme

Childcare and Nursery discount vouchers

Tech scheme

Cycle to Work scheme

Enhanced Maternity leave

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records of pupil attendance and punctuality.
• Administer Leave of Absence requests following school policies.
• Compile documentation for Local Authority processes.
• Coordinate reduced timetable arrangements and ensure compliance.
• Support attendance initiatives and communication with parents.
• Manage safeguarding processes for unexplained absences.

Skills

Strong administrative and organisational skills

Confident handling sensitive information

Clear and professional communication

Ability to work independently and in a team

Education

GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and organised Attendance Support Officer to join our Attendance and Family Engagement team within a large, inclusive secondary school.

The post holder will play a key role in the effective administration and coordination of attendance processes, supporting the school’s statutory duties, safeguarding responsibilities and attendance strategy. The role requires a confident administrator who can work proactively with staff, parents/carers and external agencies to help remove barriers to attendance and improve outcomes for pupils.

Key Responsibilities

The post holder will:

• Maintain accurate and timely records of pupil attendance, absence and punctuality in line with school procedures
• Administer Leave of Absence requests and associated correspondence in accordance with the school’s Attendance Policy and Department for Education guidance
• Compile, manage and submit documentation to support Local Authority processes, including Fixed Penalty Warning Letters and Notices to Improve
• Coordinate and monitor reduced timetable arrangements, ensuring statutory guidance, review timelines and safeguarding requirements are met
• Work closely with Year Teams, pastoral staff and senior leaders to review attendance concerns and support agreed action plans
• Communicate professionally with parents/carers regarding attendance matters, providing clear guidance, follow-up and support
• Take accurate minutes at attendance meetings and briefings and ensure actions are communicated effectively
• Liaise with parents/carers, the Education Support Service and other internal and external agencies as required
• Contribute to initiatives to promote, monitor and reward good or improved attendance
• Support safeguarding processes by following up missing registers, unexplained absences or missing pupils and escalating concerns appropriately

What We Offer

• A supportive and inclusive working environment
• Term-time working to support work–life balance
• Opportunities for professional development and progression
• A role that makes a direct contribution to safeguarding and pupil outcomes
• Healthcare Cash Plan options for you & your family*
• Free on-site gym & personal & group training sessions
• Electric Car Scheme & onsite charging points
• Childcare and Nursery discount vouchers
• Tech scheme
• Charity Giving
• Free remote & onsite yoga sessions
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free Parking
• Gym & retailer discounts
• Onsite car valeting
• Enhanced Maternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave

Safeguarding Commitment

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful applicant will be subject to enhanced DBS clearance and all relevant safeguarding checks.

Grade: NJC Grade 5

Hours: 37 hours per week

Working Pattern: Term Time Only (39 weeks per year)

Contract: Permanent

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Has strong administrative and organisational skills
• Is confident handling sensitive and confidential information
• Can communicate clearly and professionally with parents/carers and colleagues
• Is able to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider team
• Has experience in an administrative, attendance, pastoral or education-related role (desirable but not essential)
• Has GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths