School Link Worker/DSL/ELSA

Reigniting Learning, Nurture, Connect, Thrive

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families?

We are looking for a dedicated

Home School Link Worker to join our senior team at Hawthorn Academy.

This is a pivotal role, offering the chance to make a lasting difference to the lives of children and their families by building strong relationships, embedding a robust safeguarding culture, and ensuring the very best outcomes for every young person in our care.

As our Designated Safeguarding Lead, you will lead on all aspects of safeguarding and child protection, supported by a team of Deputy DSLs. You will also hold senior leadership responsibility for championing and improving attendance. Working closely with families, external agencies, and colleagues, you will develop innovative approaches to ensure that every pupil is supported to attend, engage, and thrive.

Hawthorn Academy is a newly established specialist school in Bracknell, for pupils aged 11-16 with a range of complex Special Educational Needs. The school operates as a part of The Propeller Academy Trust , reflecting a strong commitment to high-quality, inclusive, and specialist provision.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Full induction programme and ongoing CPD
• Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
• Flexible working options
• Local Government Pension (LGPS)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Refer-a-friend scheme (earn up to £500)
• A strong, therapeutic and supportive school culture

About the Role

• Build positive relationships with families to empower them in supporting their children.
• To carry out the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and lead on safeguarding, welfare, attendance, and family engagement
• To also deliver targeted emotional support (ELSA)
• Provide practical and emotional support to improve school attendance and well-being.
• Act as a link between families, schools, and external agencies.
• Lead Early Help Assessments and attend multi-agency meetings.
• Deliver parent workshops and training sessions on topics such as autism awareness and communication strategies.
• Maintain accurate, confidential and high quality records and contribute to audits, inspections and statutory returns.

What We’re Looking For

• GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4-9 or equivalent).
• DSL training (or willingness to complete)
• ELSA training/qualification (desirable)
• Leadership or coordination experience
• Working with children and families, ideally in a school or special educational setting.
• Supporting pupils with additional needs (SEMH, ASC, SLD, PMLD).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build relationships with families and professionals
• Strong organisational, IT and record keeping skills
• Empathetic, resilient, professional and adaptable
• Committed to safeguarding and inclusion

How to Apply

To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the School Business Manager, Sandra Allen at ***email_hidden*** or call 01183592449.