At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 tuition and mentoring to support vulnerable young people.
- Company: Quantum Scholars, expanding Alternative Provision services in Somerset.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, ongoing referrals, competitive rates, and meaningful work.
- Other info: Join a growing network of passionate tutors and support staff.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives and help them succeed.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, strong communication skills, and willingness to obtain an Enhanced DBS.
The predicted salary is between 23400 - 29910 £ per year.
IMPORTANT: Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available for these opportunities.
Quantum Scholars is currently expanding its Alternative Provision services across Somerset and is preparing for a significant increase in referrals across Taunton and the surrounding area from September 2026 onwards. As part of this growth, we are looking to build a strong network of SEND Tutors, Mentors, Learning Support Assistants (LSAs), Teaching Assistants, Behaviour Mentors, Youth Workers, Pastoral Support Staff, and SEND Support Workers who are passionate about helping vulnerable young people succeed. This opportunity may also suit classroom teachers looking to move away from mainstream education, as well as supply teachers seeking a more flexible and rewarding way to support young people on a 1:1 basis.
Many of the learners we support are currently outside of mainstream education and may experience challenges linked to SEND, SEMH, autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, medical needs, behavioural difficulties, or school avoidance. For the right person, this can be incredibly rewarding work. The support you provide can help a young person rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning, and achieve outcomes they may never have thought possible.
The Role
- 1:1 tuition and mentoring support
- SEND intervention and engagement work
- Academic and emotional support
- EOTAS and Alternative Provision support
Most sessions are delivered face-to-face within a student's home or a suitable community setting, allowing for highly personalised support tailored to the individual learner. While the majority of referrals are in-person, there may occasionally be opportunities for online tuition, depending on the needs of the student. With a growing number of referrals anticipated from September, we are looking to establish a strong local network of tutors and support staff who are interested in ongoing opportunities throughout the academic year.
Requirements
- Experience supporting children or young people
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one)
- Ability to travel within Taunton and surrounding areas
- Driving and access to a vehicle would be highly advantageous.
What We Offer
- Flexible opportunities to suit your availability
- Ongoing referrals throughout the academic year
- Opportunities for both face-to-face and occasional online support
- Meaningful work supporting vulnerable young people
- Competitive rates, dependent on experience
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Tutor - Taunton)
✨Get Involved in Local Communities
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Create a portfolio showcasing case studies and successes from your social work. Use platforms like LinkedIn to share insights about your experiences. The more visible you are in showcasing your expertise, the more likely you are to attract clients who need your services.
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Join online forums and social media groups specifically for social workers. Websites like The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) have resources and connections tailored for freelancers. Being active in these spaces can lead to referral opportunities and job postings that aren’t advertised elsewhere.
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience in Social Work:When applying for a freelance social work position at Academics, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you've gained—whether it's through internships, volunteer work, or previous roles. Include specific examples that demonstrate your ability to handle diverse client needs and situations.
Include Your Qualifications and Certificates:Don’t forget to mention any qualifications or certifications relevant to social work, like your degree or specialised training. These can really set you apart from other candidates, especially since social work often requires specific credentials to ensure client safety and well-being.
Present a Strong Portfolio:As a freelancer, it’s great to have a portfolio that showcases your case studies or programme designs. This can help potential clients, like Academics, see the tangible impact of your work. Include client testimonials where possible to add credibility!
Clarify Your Availability and Rates:When you apply, be upfront about your availability and rates. Since freelance social work can be quite flexible, stating your working hours and what you charge will help Academics understand how you fit into their needs. It's all about setting the right expectations!
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics
✨Showcase Your Experience
As a freelancer in social work, it’s crucial to highlight your previous experiences. Share case studies or anecdotes that illustrate your ability to manage diverse client needs. Remember, specific situations where you made a positive impact can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Ethical Scenarios
Expect questions about ethical dilemmas you’ve faced in your past work. Social work often involves complex situations; be prepared to discuss how you navigated those scenarios and the decisions you made. This will showcase your critical thinking and adherence to ethical standards.
✨Pitch Your Unique Approach
Freelancing means you have a unique selling point. Be ready to explain what makes your approach distinct. Whether it's a specific methodology you adhere to or a particular demographic you focus on, articulating this can convince potential clients of your value.
✨Discuss Your Availability and Rates
In a freelance interview, it’s essential to clearly discuss your availability and how you structure your rates. Be honest about what you can commit to, whether it’s hours, specific projects, or ongoing support. Transparency here builds trust with Academics from the get-go!
