At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students aged 16-19 in their academic and vocational journeys.
- Company: Join Activate Learning, a pioneering education group transforming lives.
- Benefits: Up to ÂŁ13.54/hour, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your career in education.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for helping young people succeed.
- Other info: Dynamic college environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 14 ÂŁ per hour.
Salary: Up to ÂŁ13.54 per hour
Contract Type: Fixed‑Term Contract (until July 2026)
Location: Banbury and Bicester College
Training: Various in‑house training opportunities relevant to the role.
Working Pattern: Term‑time only, Full‑time positions available
We are currently looking for Student Support Assistants to join our dedicated team based at Banbury College. If you are passionate about supporting students, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to make a real difference in the lives of learners, we would love to hear from you!
About the Role as a Student Support Assistant:
As a Student Support Assistant, you will provide in‑class and individual support to young adults aged 16‑19 enrolled in a wide range of academic and vocational programmes, from entry qualifications to Level 3, including T levels. Pathways available for students include animal management, e‑sports, performing arts, public services, catering, health and social care and hair and beauty. You will help them overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential, supporting their progress in both practical and academic environments.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting students across a variety of course levels (Entry Level to Level 3)
- Acting as a positive role model and using inclusive, student‑centred support strategies
- Collaborating with tutors and support teams to meet individual student needs
- Assisting with personal care and behaviour management where necessary, with training provided
Our Student Support Assistants play a vital role in empowering students with additional learning needs to achieve success throughout their educational journey.
What do you need to be a successful Student Support Assistant at Activate Learning?
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively and independently
- A flexible, proactive, and supportive approach to working with learners
- Creativity and empathy in engaging and motivating students with diverse needs
- A genuine passion for helping young people succeed
- Previous experience supporting students with SEN is helpful but not essential
- Willingness to undertake personal care and manual handling training if required
If you’re motivated to make a real difference and want to be part of a supportive, student‑focused team, this is a fantastic opportunity to start or develop your career in education. You’ll be part of a dynamic college environment where your work has a direct impact on student achievement and wellbeing.
Who we are:
Activate Learning is a pioneering education group with a global reach, committed to transforming lives through our approach to learning. We see our employees as individuals, empowering them to make the right choices for their ambitions and careers. We value our people as vital to our continued success and aspire to a diverse, open and inclusive environment that provides the motivation for everyone to pursue their career goals and flourish.
When you work for Activate Learning, you’re working for an organisation that provides you with the advantages of a large employer, a trusted partner in your career development, and a transformational way of working whilst also investing in building a community environment for everyone. Together, we will bring out the best version of yourself.
Activate Learning Group Employee Benefits:
- Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards: Celebrating staff for their dedication and accomplishments aligned to our award‑winning Learning Philosophy.
- Wellbeing & Resources Groups: Comprehensive range of resources, guides and tools to support staff wellbeing
- Company benefits: Including free eye tests and will writing, plus access to a Health Cash Plan covering optical, dental, health screening, and therapy treatments for you and your dependents.
- Learning and Development: continuous opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement through our in‑house L&D team.
- Teaching Support: Tailored induction and development programs for teaching staff.
- Pension Schemes: Teacher and Local Government pension schemes for AL staff
- Generous Annual Leave: Up to 6 weeks paid leave
- Flexible Working: Options include hybrid and remote, term time only, and flexible working patterns.
- Competitive salaries: Annual incremental progression and a twelve point pay scale for teachers.
- On‑Site Facilities: Free parking at all campuses, refectories, hair and beauty salons & gym access.
For a comprehensive list of all of our benefits & wellbeing offering, please visit our work‑with‑us/wellbeing.
Applicants should apply at the earliest opportunity; closed vacancies will prevent application form submission. Applications are reviewed and shortlisted on a rolling basis, we reserve the right to interview, appoint and close adverts.
Activate Learning is committed to safeguarding and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check at the appropriate level. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK, we do not sponsor work permits. Work permits from other organisations are unacceptable as proof of right to work in the UK. Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet or exceed minimum criteria, regardless of age, disability, gender, orientation, race, religion, or ethnicity. Activate Learning are committed to employing people with disabilities and will ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible. If you require any reasonable adjustments either at application or interview stage, please contact the talent team directly.
Note: Some positions may require a legally mandated health surveillance check for exposure to hazardous conditions.
Student Support Assistants employer: Activate Learning
Contact Detail:
Activate Learning Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Support Assistants
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Student Support Assistants on LinkedIn or through college events. They can give you the inside scoop on what it’s really like and might even refer you for the job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experiences align with supporting students and overcoming barriers to learning. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! When discussing your approach to engaging students, share specific examples of how you've motivated others in the past. This will help us see how you can make a real difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our awesome benefits!
We think you need these skills to ace Student Support Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting students shine through! We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the Student Support Assistant role. Highlight your communication skills and any experience working with diverse learners, as these are key to thriving in our collaborative environment.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Activate Learning
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Student Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the types of courses and students you'll be supporting, as well as the skills required, like communication and empathy. This will help you tailor your answers to show how you can meet their needs.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your genuine passion for helping young people succeed. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to supporting students, especially those with additional learning needs. This will resonate with the interviewers and demonstrate your dedication to the role.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Expect scenario-based questions where you might need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations, such as supporting a student with SEN or managing behaviour in class. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to different challenges.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or the college's approach to student support. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.