At a Glance
- Tasks: Support primary school pupils with additional needs during breaks and activities.
- Company: Join Dumfries and Galloway Council, dedicated to equality and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and Standard Grades in English and Maths required.
- Other info: Fixed term role, 25 hours per week during term-time until July 2026.
The predicted salary is between 14223 - 14464 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint two enthusiastic General Assistants with the desired personal qualities and skills to join the Georgetown Primary School staff team. You will be required to support the health and wellbeing of primary school pupils with severe and complex additional support needs. The role will include supporting pupils at break and lunchtime with eating and drinking as well as with activities before, during and after break and lunch, including intimate personal care. You will also provide general auxiliary support in school.
Two posts which are both 25 hours per week, 38 weeks per year, Monday-Friday during term-time.
These posts are fixed term up to July 2026 and may be suitable for secondment. Agreement from your line manager must be sought before applying for this post.
The successful candidate will have experience working with children and young people, have English and Maths Standard Grades (or equivalent) as a minimum, and be able to build positive relationships with young people.
Experience of working with children/young people who have additional support needs would be advantageous. A willingness to undertake training will be required. Georgetown Primary School provides education to primary aged young people with severe and complex needs, and therefore you will be required to support pupils who have a wide range of needs including communication, autism, visual impairment and physical disabilities.
This post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. From 28 February 2011, preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG scheme update check prior to formal offer of employment being made by Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Applicants who have been resident outside the UK within the last 5 years, if offered a position, in addition to a Disclosure Scotland Check, will be required to provide a completed police record check from the police authority in the country or countries in which they were resident.
With an exciting benefits package, working for Dumfries and Galloway Council supports you to invest in your own health and wellbeing. Employees have access to our bespoke Vivup platform with over 800 discounts on everyday essentials from top UK retailers, restaurants, utility providers and more. Employees also get access to exclusive discounts from local businesses, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support from My Money Matters, and guidance from our trained Wellbeing Champions.
Here at Dumfries and Galloway Council we are committed to equality, diversity and equal opportunity with our values, which include treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, driving us to tackle inequality. We are looking for people that can bring different perspectives and experiences and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation.
For further information please contact: Lesley Macleod, Headteacher, on 01387 264079
General Assistant - DGA12046 employer: Dumfries and Galloway Council
Contact Detail:
Dumfries and Galloway Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Assistant - DGA12046
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with severe and complex additional support needs. Understanding their challenges and how to support them effectively will show your commitment and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have working with children or young people, especially those with additional support needs. This could include volunteering, internships, or previous jobs that demonstrate your ability to connect with and support young individuals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your approach to building positive relationships with pupils during the interview. Think about examples from your past experiences where you've successfully engaged with children, particularly those who may have faced challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to express your willingness to undertake training and development opportunities. Showing enthusiasm for learning new skills related to supporting children with diverse needs can set you apart as a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace General Assistant - DGA12046
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the General Assistant position. Highlight any specific skills or experiences you have that align with supporting pupils with additional support needs.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant experience working with children and young people, especially those with additional support needs. Include any qualifications like English and Maths Standard Grades, and emphasise your ability to build positive relationships.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of the needs of primary school pupils. Mention any previous experience in similar settings and your willingness to undertake training.
Prepare for Background Checks: Be ready to provide necessary documentation for the PVG Scheme and any police record checks if you've lived outside the UK in the last five years. This shows your preparedness and understanding of the requirements for working with vulnerable children.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dumfries and Galloway Council
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for supporting children, especially those with additional support needs. Share any relevant experiences you've had that demonstrate your commitment to their wellbeing and development.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss any previous roles or volunteer work where you supported children or young people, particularly those with complex needs. Be specific about the skills you developed and how they relate to the role of a General Assistant.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you would handle specific situations involving children with severe and complex needs. Think through potential scenarios and how you would respond to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the pupils.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working as part of a team, be ready to discuss how you collaborate with others. Provide examples of how you've worked effectively in a team setting, especially in educational or care environments.