At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people in animal care and outdoor learning activities.
- Company: Chestnut Hill School, a supportive environment for autistic pupils.
- Benefits: Mental health support, flexible benefits, and discounts.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a beautiful market town.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people every day.
- Qualifications: Passion for animal welfare and experience with young people.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 28000 £ per year.
We believe in giving you more time to do the things you love outside of work.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about working with animals and supporting young people to build confidence, independence and life skills. This role is not a typical teaching assistant position; you will combine animal welfare, outdoor learning and education to create unforgettable experiences for autistic young people aged 8‑19.
What You'll Be Doing
- Supporting pupils during animal care, enrichment and outdoor learning activities.
- Encouraging confidence, independence and personal development through practical experiences.
- Building positive relationships with pupils and understanding their individual communication and sensory needs.
- Supporting the development of teamwork, problem‑solving, communication and life skills.
- Preparing resources, visual supports and differentiated materials to enable participation.
- Taking responsibility for the daily care and welfare of the school's animals, including feeding, cleaning and health checks.
- Modelling safe, respectful interactions with animals and promoting excellent hygiene practices.
- Monitoring pupil engagement and wellbeing, providing feedback to the wider team.
- Contributing to risk assessments, safeguarding procedures and maintaining safe learning environments.
Qualifications & Experience
- Passionate about both animal welfare and supporting young people.
- Experienced in working with children and young people with autism, additional needs or complex needs.
- Calm, patient and positive, even when faced with challenges.
- Confident supporting practical activities, outdoor learning and animal care routines.
- Natural relationship‑builder who understands the importance of trust and consistency.
- Committed to safeguarding, professional boundaries and promoting wellbeing.
- Organised, proactive and able to work as part of a supportive team.
- Excited by the opportunity to make a genuine difference every single day.
Benefits
- Mental health support and physical health checks.
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista) – Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits.
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts.
- Cycle to Work Scheme and Electric Car Purchase Scheme.
- Critical illness cover.
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.
- Life Assurance Pension scheme with options to increase contributions.
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” programme.
Chestnut Hill is a small, independent school catering to autistic pupils and young people aged 8‑19, providing an inclusive, safe, inspiring and supportive environment. Our curriculum covers all areas of learning from the New Welsh Curriculum in flexible ways, and we offer a range of activities such as yoga, cycling, forest school, swimming and inclusive sports. We are located in Holywell, a beautiful market town and community in Flintshire, Wales. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and a fully enhanced DBS. We are also proud to offer a variety of health and wellbeing benefits, and we remain committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils.
Enrichment and Animal Care Teaching Assistant in Holywell employer: Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
At Chestnut Hill School in Holywell, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the wellbeing and professional growth of our staff. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of autistic young people while enjoying benefits such as mental health support, flexible working options, and a commitment to personal development. Join us in creating unforgettable experiences in a beautiful market town setting, where your passion for animal care and education can truly shine.
Contact Details:
Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd Recruitment Team
