Policy Officer: MAT Sector Unit

There are currently over four thousand schools in multi-academy trusts (MATs). MATs are small charities, usually led by former head teachers, which are responsible for performance and resources across all the trust's schools. By bringing schools together in a formal partnership, MATs provide a strong model for realising the benefits that collaboration offers for school improvement.

The MAT Sector Unit is at the centre of this drive for educational improvement, working alongside the National Schools Commissioner and eight Regional Schools Commissioners. Our unit has strategic responsibility for policy on MATs. We collaborate with researchers, both within and outside the department, policy and delivery teams, as well as directly engaging the education sector, to build the evidence base, develop government policy and support its implementation.

We are recruiting a senior executive officer to lead key elements of the unit's work on MAT policy and evidence. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the department's future approach and the support it gives to the sector. The successful candidate will be confident working with quantitative and qualitative evidence, being able to draw robust conclusions from incomplete data. You will be skilled in communicating complex information effectively to a range of audiences, and the role will include opportunities to brief Ministers and senior officials. You will have a keen interest in research and will be able to build effective relationships within and outside the department, including engaging external researchers about their work. You will enjoy working as part of a team but be comfortable leading your own work and generating new ideas. You will have a strong focus on your own development and will proactively support the development of those around you.

Please see further details on the attachment provided below.

Person specification

Please briefly describe any relevant experience or skills.

Competencies

We'll assess you against these competencies during the selection process:

• Making effective decisions
• Collaborating and partnering
• Seeing the big picture
• Delivering at pace

Civil Service Competency Framework

Benefits

Pensions

Civil Service pension schemes may be available for successful candidates.

Things you need to know

Security

Successful candidates must pass basic security checks.

Nationality statement

Candidates will be subject to UK immigration requirements as well as Civil Service nationality rules.

If you're applying for a role requiring security clearance please be aware that foreign or dual nationality is not an automatic bar. However certain posts may have restrictions which could affect those who do not have sole British nationality or who have personal connections with certain countries outside the UK.

Selection process details

An initial sift based on competency 1 may be held if a large number of applications are received.
If your application progresses to a full sift, all competences will then be considered.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

Nationality requirements

Open to UK, Commonwealth and European Economic Area (EEA) and certain non EEA nationals. Further information on whether you are able to apply is available here.

Eligibility

Candidates in their probationary period are eligible to apply for vacancies within this department.

Working for the Civil Service

The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.

We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles.

The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. There is a guaranteed interview scheme (GIS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.