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Aims and Purposes

 

The Education Welfare Service sets out to provide support, in the widest sense, for the families of children/young people at school in order that they may benefit fully from the education to which they are entitled.

Sandwell Stars SandraIt does this by:

  • Assisting schools with the early identification and assessment of problems which cause poor attendance or lateness.
  • Working with schools, parents/carers and children/young people where appropriate to agree action plans aimed at addressing problems and raise attendance involving other agencies as appropriate.
  • Reviewing school attendance data to ensure that no child or young person experiencing problems is “hidden” and thereby potentially be at risk.
  • Where other courses of action fail, the Service fulfils the duty of the Local Authority to enforce school attendance and, where necessary, institute legal proceedings. (Education Act 1996 and Children Act 1989)

The service also:

  • Seeks to prevent the exploitation of young people in employment and entertainment. (Children and Young Persons Acts 1933 and 1963 and Local byelaws.)
  • Works together with schools and other agencies to protect children/young people from abuse. (Children Act 1989 and Guidance. Sandwell Area Child Protection Committee (ACPC) Procedures)
  • Co-operates with schools and agencies in addressing problems which affect children/young people and young persons within society. e.g. Crime, drugs, alcohol, gambling etc.
  • Seeks to ensure equality of access to services and assists in addressing the many disadvantages which may limit pupils' ability to develop to their full potential.
  • Holds information relating to children and young people who are electively home educated where known.

Education Welfare Service Mission Statement

Sandwell Stars ShaniqueTo encourage and, where necessary, enforce school attendance, and to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in order that they may reach their full potential and meet the Every Child Matters outcomes of enjoy and achieve, feel safe, make a positive contribution and, ultimately enjoy economic well being.

To achieve this, the Education Welfare Service will strive for excellence through training and development of its officers and by working in partnership with schools, governors, families and other agencies.