Family Support Officer

Job Description

Whitmore Primary School and Nursery has an exciting opportunity for a Family Support Officer to join our fantastic team in May 2026.

The position is for 16 hours, 15 minutes per week (Mon 8.20-11.35am, Tues 12.45-4pm, Weds AM or PM, Thurs 8.20-11.35am, Fri 12.45-4pm - 3 hours 15 mins per day). Term time only for 38 weeks per year.

Salary Scale 5, Point 10 (Range 10 to 12) Actual starting salary £10,438 per annum, dependant on qualifications and experience. (includes paid annual leave, which must be taken during school closure periods).

Applications close: Midday on 29th April 2026. Interviews: Friday 8th May 2026.

School

Whitmore Primary School and Nursery is located in Whitmore Way, Basildon and has an excellent reputation in the local community. We are one of 11 schools that form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Family Support Officer to join our friendly school. The applicant should have GCSE's in English and Maths equivalent to a minimum of Grade C or Level 4.

We are looking for a person who:

• is caring, supportive and has excellent communication skills in order to build strong, effective relationships with parents/carers, pupils and staff
• has a tracked record on confidentiality being upheld and understands the importance of this
• has knowledge on help and support available for families in the local area (early help signposting)
• can take ownership of their own personal development
• is well organised, can prioritise tasks and manage their workload effectively
• is confident to work in a busy office, dealing with a variety of needs, maintaining a level of calm and professionalism at all times
• has excellent IT skills, preferably with good experience and competence with Excel, Office and school-based management systems such as SIMS
• has a good level of standard English and can communicate professionally and competently through a range of methods (letters, emails, text messages, meetings and telephone calls) with a range of stakeholders
• takes responsibility and pride for their work and pays attention to detail

We can offer you:
· a well-resourced learning environment with enthusiastic and supportive staff
· a forward looking school that is dedicated to the success of all children and staff
· a commitment to continued professional development
· access to our Employee Assistance Programme for staff and families

Berlesduna is a Trust that values and invests in staff, excellent training, development and planned career progression.

Application

We welcome visits to the school prior to application. Visits can be arranged by contacting Helen Kilner - Office Manager at officemanager@whitmore-pri.essex.sch.uk or 01268 520435.

Please take care to complete the application in full as incomplete applications will not be considered. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early so recommend that you submit your application at your earliest convenience.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We may review the internet and social media relating to shortlisted candidates as part of the screening process. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, medical clearance and satisfactory references.

We are an equal opportunities employer.

Information about the School

Whitmore Primary School and Nursery is a growing and supportive school in the local community, located in Whitmore Way, Basildon. We are one of ten schools that form the Berlesduna Academy Trust (www.berlesduna.co.uk), where the vision is to create and foster a culture of high aspiration, enjoyment for learning, academic success and lifelong skills amongst all pupils, regardless of their social, economic or cultural background.