SEND Transport Driver in Berkeley

This hugely important role is all about transporting our learners to and from our centres each day from surrounding areas. You will be key in ensuring learners begin and end their day safely, positively and on time. The postholder will be responsible for the safety and safeguarding of learners while in transit and for maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and basic upkeep of the vehicle. This is a split-shift role, typically involving an early morning collection run and an afternoon return journey during term time. You will be working with young people (16+) who have an Education Health & Care Plan (EHCP). The learners we work with can have complex needs including SEMH, ASD, ADHD and potentially having additional learning difficulties and/or disabilities. This is a zero hour contract.

As a SEND transport operative, a typical day might include:

• Safely transport learners to and from Skills Centre Plus sites according to agreed routes and schedules.
• Conduct daily vehicle safety and maintenance checks in line with legal and organisational requirements.
• Keep the vehicle clean, tidy, and in a roadworthy condition, refuelling as required.
• Ensure the safety and safeguarding of all learners while in transit.
• Support learners with embarking and disembarking the vehicle safely, providing additional assistance for those with SEND.
• Delivering a positive experience for the start and end of the learning day for our learners – to ensure they are motivated, feel safe, and supported.
• Communicate professionally with centre teams, parents, and carers when necessary.
• Maintain accurate journey records and report any incidents or concerns promptly.
• Promote positive behaviour and wellbeing during journeys.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Full, clean UK driving licence with D1 entitlement.
• Experience driving minibuses or similar passenger vehicles.
• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection principles.
• Empathy, patience, and the ability to build positive relationships with learners.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently.

What will make you stand out from the crowd:

• MIDAS (Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) certification.
• First Aid qualification.
• Previous experience working with young people with SEND.
• Experience in an educational or care environment.
• Basic mechanical or vehicle maintenance knowledge.

As soon as a suitable candidate is found we reserve the right to close the advert ahead of the closing date, so please do not delay in submitting your application. As part of our commitment to safeguarding there will be numerous safeguarding checks that form part of the recruitment process including an Enhanced DBS check and you will be required to complete a self-declaration form at interview stage. Please note this role is also exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and it is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from regulated activity. Acis are committed to equality and diversity, are a proud member of disability confident and welcome applications from any applicant who feel they hold the essential skills to fulfil the role. We recognise that people need flexibility in their role and we're happy to discuss flexible working options with the successful candidate in addition to any aid with interviewing that you might need.