A large and improving 11–18 secondary school in Luton is seeking an experienced Attendance & Welfare Manager to lead its attendance strategy and pastoral intervention systems. The school serves a diverse and vibrant community and has invested significantly in strengthening its behaviour, safeguarding and attendance frameworks in recent years.

This is a senior pastoral support role, ideal for a confident and resilient professional who can combine data-driven analysis with strong relationship-building skills.

The Role

As Attendance & Welfare Manager, you will oversee whole-school attendance systems and lead targeted intervention for students at risk of persistent absence. You will work closely with senior leaders, Heads of Year and safeguarding staff to ensure a coordinated approach.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Monitoring and analysing whole-school attendance data
• Leading first-day response and absence tracking systems
• Managing attendance panels and parent meetings
• Coordinating intervention plans for persistent absentees
• Liaising with external agencies and local authority officers
• Supporting safeguarding processes linked to attendance
• Line managing attendance officers or support staff

The role requires both strategic oversight and hands-on intervention work.

The School Environment

This Luton secondary school operates with clear systems and structured leadership. Behaviour policies are embedded, and the pastoral team is well-staffed and collaborative.

The attendance function is central to school improvement planning, and senior leaders are committed to providing the tools and support necessary to drive progress.

The school benefits from:

• Established MIS and attendance tracking systems
• A clear safeguarding framework
• A visible and supportive leadership team
• Strong links with local services

Staff describe the culture as purposeful, resilient and focused on improvement.

Who We’re Looking For

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience in attendance, welfare or safeguarding within a school setting
• Demonstrate strong data analysis and reporting skills
• Be confident conducting difficult conversations with families
• Understand statutory attendance guidance and safeguarding requirements
• Be organised, resilient and solutions-focused

Experience managing staff or leading attendance initiatives would be advantageous.

What’s On Offer

• A senior pastoral leadership role within a structured Luton secondary school
• Clear systems and leadership support
• Opportunities for professional development
• A meaningful role impacting student outcomes
• Competitive salary reflective of responsibility

This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced attendance professional to make a measurable difference within a well-led and ambitious school community.