Student Family Engagement Officer / Social Worker

The successful applicant will work closely with schools and parents/carers to assess what are the barriers to attendance, and work to address these to support the reengagement of children and young people in appropriate educational and/or training pathways. The position will work directly with students and families which may involve outreach work in settings such as the home, schools and community venues.

The ideal candidate is highly likely to have a strong understanding of, and experience in, confidently working with children, young people and families who have complex concerns, such as developmental trauma. The ideal candidate will be professionally resilient and be able to build relationships with parents/carers who may be disengaged from services, supports, and the school system. The successful applicant has a well-developed understanding of the scope of service delivery and support options available in the ACT. They will be familiar with education settings, have the skills and capacity to impact positively on student outcomes through developing a strong understanding of the student and family needs, supporting relevant community agency referrals, strengthening communication, building capacity in schools and championing Directorate commitments to continuous improvement.

ELIGIBILITY/OTHER REQUIREMENTS: 

Mandatory

• Tertiary qualifications in social work
• Current professional practicing membership with the Australian Association of Social Workers, or eligibility for membership
• At least three years post qualification experience in a relevant field of case management working with children and families
• Current drivers’ licence is essential
• Prior to commencing in this role, a current registration issued under the Working with Vulnerable People (Background Checking) Act 2011 will be required. For further information on Working with Vulnerable People registration refer to: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/business-and-work/working-with-vulnerable-people/apply-for-or-renew-a-wwvp-registration 

Highly Desirable:

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Trauma Informed Practice
• Access to personal vehicle is desirable.
• A sound knowledge and understanding of the social and economic issues affecting children, young people and their families within the ACT Government.

Note: A Merit Pool will be established from this selection process and will be used to fill vacancies over the next 12 months.

Selection may be based on application and referee reports only.

HOW TO APPLY: 

For further information, please visit www.jobs.act.gov.au

To submit your application please click 'Apply Now' by the closing date.