School Inclusion Advocate

Job Posting Organization:
54 reasons is Australia’s leading child rights organization, part of the Save the Children Australia Group and a global movement. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that children and young people have their rights met and thrive in all their diversity. With a mission to advocate for children's rights, 54 reasons operates across every state and territory in Australia, providing quality services to children and their caregivers. The organization employs approximately 600 people and is committed to diversity and inclusion, recognizing the unique value each individual brings to the team.

Job Overview:
The School Inclusion Advocate position is a full-time, maximum term role until March 30th, 2027, based in the Winnellie office while working closely with families and schools in the Darwin and Palmerston areas. The primary focus of this role is to provide advocacy services for students attending or enrolling in Northern Territory Government (NTG) schools and their families, ensuring they can access and participate in education. The advocate will work collaboratively with children and families to identify strengths, establish goals, and assist them in navigating the education system. This role is crucial in removing barriers to education and promoting sustainable outcomes for children at risk of exclusion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the School Inclusion Advocate include:

• Working with children and families to identify their strengths and establish goals for increased inclusion in education.
• Assisting students and their families in understanding and navigating the education system, including practices and processes.
• Referring students and their families to relevant support networks, organizations, and information sources.
• Collaborating closely with stakeholders such as the Department of Education, NTG Schools, Service Providers, and Peak Organizations.
• Collecting and recording program data and information for planning, evaluation, and reporting purposes.
• Maintaining accurate records of work undertaken, including entering and maintaining information in an electronic database.
• Demonstrating resilience and a strengths-based approach in advocating for children and young people.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the School Inclusion Advocate position must possess demonstrated experience working alongside children and young people, families, and carers, particularly those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, low socioeconomic status, and socially or geographically isolated families. A strong understanding of child rights and the importance of access to education is essential. Additionally, candidates should have knowledge and experience working within NTG school environments and an understanding of the stresses faced by vulnerable families, including the range of family risk and protective factors impacting child outcomes.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in social work, education, psychology, or a related field would be beneficial for this role. Candidates should have a solid understanding of child development, educational practices, and advocacy principles to effectively support children and families.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in advocacy, social work, or education, particularly in contexts involving children and families at risk of exclusion from education. Experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and understanding the unique challenges they face is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successful collaboration with families and educational institutions.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Knowledge of Aboriginal languages or other community languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the advocate's ability to connect with diverse families.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a maximum term until March 30th, 202

• The role is based in Darwin, Northern Territory, and involves working closely with families and schools in the area. The organization encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates and emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion within its workforce. The compensation includes an award rate salary (currently Level 4.1 - $46.70 per hour) along with access to full PBI salary packaging benefits, additional leave options, professional development opportunities, and support for workplace wellness.