Of course, EWOs seek to prevent pupil absenteeism, but they also provide "lower-level social service" functions to understand the causes of absenteeism. They build vital links between school and home, and work with families to spot problems early.
Are they effective? Well, if Ofsted's Children Missing From Education report last month is anything to go by, then absolutely. Some of the best practice witnessed by inspectors was led by the education welfare service. However, the role of education welfare is often underestimated and under the radar. It is especially vulnerable to cuts. Bolton this year scrapped its education welfare service - despite it having boosted school attendance and being rated as outstanding.
Education welfare is an early intervention service providing a bridge between education and child safety. In launching the Munro review of child protection in June, Education Secretary Michael Gove stated early intervention would underpin the government's approach to the issue (alongside trusting professionals and removing bureaucracy). Given most children spend most of their daylight hours at school, it will be disappointing to say the least if Munro does not, in the event, have something concrete to say about the education welfare profession.
John Freeman and Howard Williamson
This week sees the introduction of a new weekly columnist to CYP Now. John Freeman takes over the back-page slot previously occupied by Howard Williamson. John is best known for being joint inaugural president of the Association of Directors of Children's Services and has plied his talents in local authorities across the country. He will provide crisp, incisive commentaries (no pressure, John) on the issues and controversies of the day across the spectrum of work with children, young people and families. It's a bit of a coup to have him on board.
But this is not the last we shall hear from Howard. Quite the contrary. He becomes a regular columnist on Youth Work Now and will continue to provide his special blend of practitioner and academic insight on youth affairs for CYP Now, but on a more ad hoc basis.
Ravi Chandiramani, editor, Children & Young People Now
