The Education Welfare Service is managed by the Service Manager who, in addition to certain other duties, is responsible for the overall policy, practice, management and delivery of the service.

The service is organised using a school based system with the Education Welfare Officer providing a service to the 'base' high school and its feeder primary schools. Many officers also provide a service to one or more special schools and/or pupil referral units.

A notable advantage in being school based is that EWOs are able to develop an effective partnership with their high school, using a flexible approach which can adapt readily to local needs and community issues. This allows for the development of an appropriate service which can foster and sustain positive relationships and links between the officer, school, pupils, and families as a basis for addressing issues which may affect school attendance. The system also allows for continuity as EWOs are often working with high schools and primary schools which refer children from the same family. Education Welfare Officer's also work in teams which are based on Primary Care Group Areas.

The EWS provides access to an extensive, wide ranging network of services to children, parents, families, governors and schools in addition to carrying out a number of statutory functions of the Local Education Authority. The service recognises however that its overriding function is that of promoting school attendance.