At a Glance
- Tasks: Support primary and secondary pupils with additional needs during breaks and activities.
- Company: Dumfries and Galloway Council, committed to equality and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounts on essentials, pension scheme, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Fixed term role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, English and Maths Standard Grades, and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 17303 - 17600 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic General Assistant with the desired personal qualities and skills to join the Lockerbie Primary staff team. You will be required to support the health and wellbeing of Primary/Secondary school pupils with severe and complex additional support needs. The role will include supporting pupils at break and lunchtime with eating and drinking as well as with activities before, during and after break and lunch, including intimate personal care. You will also provide general auxiliary support in school.
This post is for 27.5 hours per week, 39 weeks per year, Monday-Friday during term-time. This post is fixed term for up to 1 year. This post may be suitable for secondment. Agreement from your line manager must be sought before applying for this post.
The successful candidate will have experience working with children and young people, have English and Maths Standard Grades (or equivalent) as a minimum, and be able to build positive relationships with young people. Experience of working with children/young people who have additional support needs would be advantageous. A willingness to undertake training will be required. Lockerbie Learning Centre provides education to primary/secondary aged young people with severe and complex needs, and therefore you will be required to support pupils who have a wide range of needs including communication, autism, visual impairment and physical disabilities.
This post is considered as Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. From 28 February 2011, preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG scheme update check prior to formal offer of employment being made by Dumfries and Galloway Council. Applicants who have been resident outside the UK within the last 5 years, if offered a position, in addition to a Disclosure Scotland Check, will be required to provide a completed police record check from the police authority in the country or countries in which they were resident.
With an exciting benefits package, working for Dumfries and Galloway Council supports you to invest in your own health and wellbeing. Employees have access to our bespoke Vivup platform with over 800 discounts on everyday essentials from top UK retailers, restaurants, utility providers and more. Employees also get access to membership of The Local Government Pension Scheme (Scotland) exclusive discounts from local businesses, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support from My Money Matters, and guidance from our trained Wellbeing Champions.
Here at Dumfries and Galloway Council we are committed to equality, diversity and equal opportunity with our values, which include treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, driving us to tackle inequality. We are looking for people that can bring different perspectives and experiences and especially welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in our organisation.
For further information please contact: Joanne Cooper, Depute Headteacher, on 01576 205180.
General Assistant PEF - DGA13336 in Lockerbie employer: Dumfries and Galloway Council
Dumfries and Galloway Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment that prioritises the health and wellbeing of its staff and the community. With access to a comprehensive benefits package, including discounts on everyday essentials, a Local Government Pension Scheme, and opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles. The council's commitment to equality and diversity ensures a welcoming atmosphere where all voices are valued, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the education sector.
Contact Details:
Dumfries and Galloway Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Assistant PEF - DGA13336 in Lockerbie
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections, especially those in education or support roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school and its values. Show us you’re genuinely interested in supporting pupils with additional needs and how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a mate. Focus on scenarios where you've successfully supported children or dealt with challenging situations. We want to see your passion and problem-solving skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at Dumfries and Galloway Council.
We think you need these skills to ace General Assistant PEF - DGA13336 in Lockerbie
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about supporting their health and wellbeing, so share any relevant experiences that highlight this.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of General Assistant. Highlight any experience you have with children, especially those with additional support needs. We love seeing how your skills match what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you're a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dumfries and Galloway Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a General Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with severe and complex additional support needs, as well as the general auxiliary support required in a school setting.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children and young people, especially those with additional support needs. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to build positive relationships and provide the necessary support during activities and personal care.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
Since the role requires a willingness to undertake training, express your enthusiasm for professional development. Mention any relevant training you've completed or are interested in, particularly related to communication, autism, or other specific needs mentioned in the job description.
✨Emphasise Your Values
Dumfries and Galloway Council values equality, diversity, and respect. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with these principles and how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment for all pupils.
