At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Theodore on his school journeys, ensuring he travels safely and comfortably.
- Company: Join a caring team dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Earn £13.49 per hour with flexible hours during term time.
- Other info: Full training provided; no transport needed if you live in Darlington.
- Why this job: Be a friendly face in Theodore's life and help him enjoy his school routine.
- Qualifications: Kindness, patience, and a willingness to learn; experience with children is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 13.49 - 13.49 £ per hour.
£13.49 per hour | Monday - Friday | Term-time school transport support
Meet Theodore
Theodore is a gorgeous, smiley 5-year-old little boy with beautiful blue eyes and a smile that could light up any room! He has a wonderful personality and, although he is unable to speak or move with purpose, he has his own special ways of communicating with the people around him. Theodore communicates through his facial expressions, especially his lovely smiles when he is happy. Although partially sighted, he is aware of the world around him and enjoys responding to familiar voices, music, touch and sensory play. He is also really enjoying his time at school!
We are looking for a kind, caring and friendly Personal Assistant to support Theodore on his school journeys, helping him travel safely and comfortably to and from school each day.
About the role
This is a lovely opportunity for someone who enjoys working with children and wants to make a positive difference to a little boy's everyday life. You will accompany Theodore on his school transport, travelling with him on his morning and afternoon journeys, Monday to Friday. Your role will be to provide reassurance, support and attentive care throughout his journeys, helping him start and finish each school day feeling safe, happy and comfortable.
Theodore has a diagnosis of KNQC2 DEE and has some additional care needs. He is PEG-fed and nil by mouth, requires some suction support due to a weak cough and swallow reflex, and experiences epileptic seizures. These are mainly absence seizures and myoclonic jerks, although he has also experienced a tonic-clonic seizure. He has prescribed emergency Buccolam medication and an individual seizure care plan which must always be followed. Don't worry if you haven't supported a child with these needs before! Full training and guidance will be provided to help you feel confident and equipped to support Theodore safely and effectively.
Hours of work
- Morning: Approximately 8.00am - 8.45am
- Afternoon: Approximately 3.00pm - 4.00pm
- Monday to Friday, Term time only
Please note: There is no need for you to have transport of your own if you live in Darlington, as you can be collected from your home address and taken back to your home address.
Hourly rate: £13.49 Pay frequency: Every 4 weeks.
About you
- Naturally kind, caring and compassionate.
- Friendly, patient and relaxed in their approach.
- Reliable, responsible and attentive.
- Comfortable supporting a young child with additional needs.
- Able to follow care plans and respond calmly to changing situations.
- Someone who enjoys building a positive and trusting relationship with a child.
Previous experience supporting children with complex needs or epilepsy would be desirable, particularly experience with seizure medication, but it is not essential as full training will be provided.
Why join Theodore's team?
This is more than just a school-run role. It's an opportunity to become a familiar, friendly and reassuring face in Theodore's day, helping him enjoy his school routine and making sure he is supported every step of the way. If you are a warm-hearted, dependable person who would love to make a genuine difference to a little boy's life, we would love to hear from you! Could you be the friendly face Theodore looks forward to seeing each school day?
Personal Assistant – School Transport Support employer: Darlington Association on Disability
As a dedicated employer in the Darlington area, we pride ourselves on creating a supportive and inclusive work environment for our personal assistants. Our flexible hours and competitive pay reflect our commitment to valuing your contributions while providing opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community. Join us in making a positive impact in the life of a young boy with Autism, where your role is not just a job, but a rewarding experience that fosters personal growth and development.
Contact Details:
Darlington Association on Disability Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Personal Assistant – School Transport Support
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Darlington Association on Disability, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Darlington Association on Disability. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Darlington Association on Disability's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Personal Assistant – School Transport Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Darlington Association on Disability. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Darlington Association on Disability.
How to prepare for a job interview at Darlington Association on Disability
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Darlington Association on Disability.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Personal Assistant – School Transport Support at Darlington Association on Disability.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Darlington Association on Disability that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Personal Assistant – School Transport Support role.
