Child Officer

Overview

At Suffolk County Council, every role is a chance to create positive change. As the Children in Employment and Entertainment Officer in the School Attendance Team
, you’ll see the direct impact of your work on the people and places that make Suffolk special. Join us and turn your passion for progress into action. Reimagine the possibilities.

• You will be responsible for issuing work permits for school-aged children (under minimum school leaving age). Ensure they comply with legal restrictions on working hours, types of work, and conditions.
• You will monitor workplaces and investigate complaints or breaches.
• You will approve Body of Persons Approvals (BOPAs) for group performances.
• You will utilise your skills performing theatre inspections, as appropriate, to uphold legal standards and safeguard the welfare of children involved in performances. These inspections may be required outside standard business hours.
• Approve chaperone licenses for those who supervise children during performances.
• Responsible for maintaining a register of all licensed chaperones.
• Enforce legislation such as the Children and Young Persons Acts 1933 and 1963, and local byelaws.
• Identify risk and safeguarding concerns and escalate immediately where appropriate.

• Our ideal candidate will be passionate about making a positive difference for Suffolk.
• Demonstrates a practical understanding of the Children and Young Persons Acts 1933 and 1963, Education Act 1996, and Children (Performances and Activities) (England) Regulations 2014.
• Familiarity with issuing child performance licences, work permits, and chaperone approvals.
• Brings understanding of school attendance requirements and the impact of employment/entertainment on education, with a sensitive and inclusive approach to matters relating to disability, sexuality, gender, and ethnicity.

You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (JPP) (Word).

• Our team plays a vital role in supporting children and young people across the local authority to access education consistently and confidently. We work closely with schools, families, and partner agencies to identify barriers to attendance and provide tailored interventions that make a real difference. What drives us is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive through education—and we’re proud to be part of that journey.
• Being part of our team means making a tangible impact on children s lives. You’ll have the chance to grow professionally through training, shadowing opportunities, and cross-team projects. We foster a culture of encouragement and curiosity, where your ideas are valued and your development is supported.
• We embrace flexible and hybrid working to support wellbeing and productivity. Our week offers flexibility to work remotely, conduct school visits, or engage with families in the community, alongside dedicated office time to collaborate face-to-face with colleagues.

We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.

• Closing date: 11.30pm, 8 February 2026.
• Interview date: 17 February 2026.
• Contact for information:
  Sharon Everitt at or s
• Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP).
• Step 2 - Click Apply Now to start your online application.
• Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the questions (no more than 400 words per question) using the Supporting Statement template.

Reasonable adjustments:
If you need any adjustments to help you apply, you can contact our Recruitment Team at  or  More about adjustments can be found on our Reasonable Adjustment pages. If invited to the next stage, you’ll have another chance to request adjustments.

DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

• Up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days.
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits.
• Performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase.
• Training and opportunities for professional development.
• A variety of career development opportunities across the organisation.
• Diverse and active staff networks.
• Flexible working options from day one.