About this role
School Engagement Officer
Cottenham Village College Salary: £32,597 - £36,524 per annum Contract: Permanent, full time (52 weeks per year) Closing date: 15th May 2026
About the RoleWe are seeking a committed and compassionate School Engagement Officer to join our pastoral team at Cottenham Village College. This is a pivotal role within the academy, leading on family engagement and early help, while supporting the Designated Safeguarding Lead. You will play a vital role in strengthening relationships with families, improving attendance, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our students.
About Cottenham Village CollegeCottenham Village College is a highly successful 11-16 academy, proudly part of Astrea Academy Trust, located close to the beautiful city of Cambridge. The college is a welcoming and inclusive community, where students are hardworking, well-behaved, and supported by a dedicated staff team committed to delivering a high-quality, comprehensive education. With around 880 students on roll, the college fosters a culture of high expectations, ensuring every student can thrive and succeed. Rooted in the vision that education should be at the heart of the community, Cottenham Village College promotes aspiration, a love of learning, and strong outcomes, enabling students to leave as confident, well-qualified individuals prepared for future success.
Key ResponsibilitiesAct as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead in line with statutory guidance when neededLead on family engagement and manage a caseload of targeted early help interventionsWork with DSL, SENDCo and leadership to identify and support vulnerable studentsImprove attendance through direct intervention, including attendance contracts and home visitsDevelop strong partnerships with families, carers and external agenciesDeliver targeted support and guidance, including parenting strategies and group workMaintain accurate safeguarding records, ensuring timely actions and information sharingPromote a strong culture of safeguarding and student wellbeing across the academyWhat We Are Looking ForExperience working with vulnerable children, families or within a safeguarding roleStrong understanding of safeguarding, child protection and attendance processesAbility to build positive, professional relationships with families and external partnersConfident in managing sensitive situations with professionalism and discretionHighly organised, with strong record-keeping and communication skillsAble to work independently, including undertaking home visits where requiredCommitment to inclusive practice and removing barriers to educationA proactive, resilient team player who shares our high expectations for all students
Commitment to Safeguarding and EDI:
Astrea Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory background checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check. We value diversity and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. As a Disability Confident employer, we provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure all candidates can fully demonstrate their abilities.
In line with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 and the statutory Code of Practice, the Trust requires all public-facing post holders to demonstrate fluent English. Within a school setting, this applies to all roles that involve direct or indirect interaction with pupils, parents, or members of the public.
Flexible Interview Dates:
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, so don't miss out on this exciting opportunity. Please note that interview dates are flexible, and the academy reserves the right to interview shortlisted candidates during the application window.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to our dynamic and forward-thinking team, apply today and be a part of our mission to create a positive impact!