At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 support to autistic children during engaging summer activities.
- Company: Autism Bedfordshire, a charity celebrating neurodiversity and supporting autistic individuals.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, work in a supportive environment, and make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join us to create positive experiences for children and promote inclusivity.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm, compassion, and a passion for supporting children with autism.
- Other info: Temporary summer role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 16 £ per hour.
Location: Bedford & Luton, Bedfordshire
Department: Children’s Services
Reports to: Senior Team Leader & Team Leaders
Contract: Summer Scheme Activity (Temporary)
Closing Date: 30th April 2026
(Please note Autism Bedfordshire reserves the right to fill the position before the closing date)
About Us
Autism Bedfordshire is a charity dedicated to creating a world where autistic people are accepted, understood and celebrated for who they are. We believe autism is a natural part of human diversity, and that society is stronger when neurodivergent voices and perspectives are embraced. Our Summer Activity Schemes in Bedford and Luton provide engaging onsite and community-based experiences for autistic children and young people aged 3–17. Each scheme is carefully designed to meet a wide range of needs, abilities and interests in a safe, structured and supportive environment.
About the Role
We are looking for enthusiastic, reliable and compassionate Support Workers to provide dedicated 1:1 support to children and young people attending our Summer Activity Schemes. You will work under the guidance of Senior Team Leaders and Team Leaders to ensure every child has a safe, enjoyable and positive experience. This is a hands-on role where you will support participation in activities, promote wellbeing, and help create an inclusive and engaging environment. This is a rewarding opportunity for individuals who are passionate about supporting autistic children and young people and want to make a meaningful difference during the summer period.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide consistent 1:1 support to an allocated child or young person
- Ensure their health, safety, welfare and individual needs are met at all times
- Support the safe delivery of structured onsite and community-based activities
- Assist with activity set-up and clear-down
- Accurately record arrivals, departures and fire register information
- Follow risk assessments, behaviour strategies and measurable outcome plans
- Promote social, emotional and communication development
- Maintain professional conduct and appropriate boundaries
- Liaise appropriately with parents/carers when required
- Report safeguarding, health & safety, or welfare concerns immediately
Why Join Us?
- Make a meaningful difference in children’s lives
- Gain valuable experience in children’s services and SEND support
- Work in a supportive and values-driven organisation
- Be part of an inclusive team that celebrates neurodiversity
Application
If you are passionate about supporting autistic children and young people and want a rewarding summer role where every day makes a difference, we would love to hear from you. Please download an application form below and send to recruitment@autismbeds.org.
Confidentiality and Data Protection
All staff are required to respect the confidentiality of all matters that they may learn relating to their employment, other members of staff and to the general public. All staff are required to adhere to the regulations regarding the Data Protection Act 1998.
Safeguarding
Autism Bedfordshire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults in its care. The Development Officer is often required to be the named officer for groups they are overseeing and attend relevant training. To ensure that this is achieved we expect all employees to share this commitment and staff working with these vulnerable groups will be recruited and selected in line with safer recruitment policies and practices including the completion of DBS check.
Equal opportunities and diversity
Autism Bedfordshire is an equal opportunities employer. The aims of the equal opportunities policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, religion or any disability nor disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.
Support Worker – Children’s Summer Activity Scheme (Temporary – Summer 2026) in Bedford employer: Autism Bedfordshire
Contact Detail:
Autism Bedfordshire Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Support Worker – Children’s Summer Activity Scheme (Temporary – Summer 2026) in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Autism Bedfordshire and understand their mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you, which could give you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to support work. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated compassion and reliability, as these qualities are key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a positive impact this summer.
We think you need these skills to ace Support Worker – Children’s Summer Activity Scheme (Temporary – Summer 2026) in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting autistic children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the role. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Autism Bedfordshire.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and get your message across without any fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Autism Bedfordshire
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand Autism Bedfordshire's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to supporting autistic children and young people. This will help you demonstrate your passion for the role and show that you align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Think about any relevant experience you have working with children, especially those with special educational needs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported children in the past, focusing on your ability to create a safe and engaging environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle various situations that may arise while working with children. Prepare for scenario-based questions by thinking through potential challenges and how you would address them, particularly in terms of promoting wellbeing and inclusivity.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask questions that show your genuine interest in the role. Inquire about the types of activities planned for the summer scheme or how the team supports each other in creating a positive environment for the children.