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- Tasks: Support neurodivergent children and young people in a dynamic team environment.
- Company: Join Durham County Council, committed to diversity and inclusion in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in child care or communication support are essential.
- Other info: This is an 18-month temporary position with hybrid working options.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker (Communication and Interaction Team)
Expires
08/08/2025
Expires
08/08/2025
Location
Spennymoor
Job Type
Full Time
Job Type
Full Time
We are recruiting a SEND & Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker to join our Specialist SEND & Inclusion Team. We would be particularly interested in hearing from applicants with expertise in supporting neurodivergent children and young people, including autistic young people, those with ADHD, and those with speech and language or communication needs. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will work within the Communication and Interaction Team, however, you may also be asked to work within and alongside other teams in our service, such as the Emotional Well-being and Effective Learning (EWEL) Team and the Cognition and Learning Team. Communication & Interaction Team of highly valued, supportive and dedicated team.
This post is temporary for a period of 18 months.
If you would like more information about the post please contact Liz Mulholland, Cognition and Learning Team Leader at elizabeth.mulholland@durham.gov.uk or Joanne Underwood, Area Principal Educational Psychologist at joanne.underwood@durham.gov.uk or Tel. No. 03000 263333 for an informal discussion.
WHAT WILL I NEED?
Essential requirements for this role are a relevant qualification such as:
- BTEC Diploma in Caring Services
- NVQ Level 3 in Child Care and Education/Early Years Care and Education
- NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Children and Young People’s speech, language and communication
- Recent and relevant In-Service training within the field of Speech and Language
Please refer to the attached person specification for the full criteria.
If successful, you will be required to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service Enhanced Disclosure.
REWARDS AND BENEFITS
We offer generous rewards and benefits that are designed to help you perform at your best:
- Competitive salaries and 27 days holiday per year rising to 32 days after five years continuous local government service.
- Option to purchase up to 10 additional days annual leave per year.
- Excellent work/life balance through schemes including job sharing, compressed hours and flexi-time (allowing up to 13 flexi days per year).
- Hybrid working (home and office working).
- Excellent contributory career average Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). Plus, top up options – Salary Sacrifice Shared Cost AVC scheme and standard AVC scheme for members of the LGPS.
- Wellbeing Portal and access to an Employee Assist Scheme.
- Wide range of learning and development opportunities including professional qualifications, coaching and mentoring.
- Employee Benefits Portal and Lifestyle Savings Scheme (discounts across a host of major retailers).
- Discounted DCC gym membership.
- Staff networks run by staff for our staff, including Race Equality and Diversity, Disability, LGBT+, Armed Forces, Carers, Menopause.
- Trade Union membership.
- A range of other salary sacrifice schemes such as car leasing.
Rewards and benefits are subject to individual terms and conditions. Take a closer look: https://www.durham.gov.uk/article/26895/Rewards-and-benefits
SOCIAL MEDIA
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HYBRID WORKING
Durham County Council currently operates a hybrid working policy where a model of 2 days in the workplace and 3 days at home/remote will apply. This model is pro-rated for part time roles and arrangements are at managers discretion, alternatively you can work all of your contracted hours within the workplace if you prefer.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
We are a proud equal opportunities employer and recognise that a diverse, talented workforce brings new ideas and new perspectives, which will facilitate growth and improvements to services.
We are committed to ensuring that our employment policies and processes are fair and equitable to all. We welcome job applications from everyone, and successful candidates are considered only on their skills and ability to do the job.
As a Disability Confident Leader, we encourage applications from disabled people and provide support throughout the recruitment process.
Take a closer look: https://www.durham.gov.uk/article/26899/Equality-diversity-and-inclusion-in-our-workforce
INTERVIEWS
Interviews will be held week beginning 8th September 2025.
We operate a guaranteed interview scheme for applicants that can show they meet all the essential criteria and have indicated they have a disability, are a looked after young person, care leaver or a veteran.
HOW TO APPLY
In line with the County Council\’s Recruitment and Selection Policy, please note that we are unable to accept CVs. Applications must be submitted on-line via the Northeast Jobs portal.
Please use the ‘Person Specification’ section of your application form to demonstrate that you have the essential and where possible, desirable experience, skills, and knowledge. Candidates who do not evidence that they meet the essential qualifications and experience listed on the person specification will not be short-listed.
If you have any support needs or require assistance when applying for this role, please contact our Recruitment Helpdesk on 03000 26 27 27 (option 2), or the Recruitment Team via email at RecruitmentCYPS@durham.gov.uk
We collect personal information from you when you register with North East Jobs and make an application. Details on how we process your personal data is available in our Privacy Notice. https://www.durham.gov.uk/media/24645/Privacy-notice-human-resources/pdf/PrivacyNotice-HR.pdf
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL COMMUNICATION REGARDING YOUR APPLICATION FOR THIS POST WILL BE SENT TO THE EMAIL ADDRESS THAT YOU HAVE REGISTERED WITH NORTH EAST JOBS, INCLUDING YOUR INVITE TO INTERVIEW IF YOU ARE SHORTLISTED. PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL AFTER THE CLOSING DATE FOR NOTIFICATION FROM DONOTREPLY@NORTHEASTJOBS.ORG.UK AS YOU WILL NOT BE NOTIFIED BY ANY OTHER MEANS. PLEASE ENSURE YOU CHECK YOUR JUNK MAIL.
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Apply forSEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker (Communication and Interaction Team)
This role expires08/08/2025.
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SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker (Communication and Interaction Team) (Full Time) employer: Environmentjournal
Contact Detail:
Environmentjournal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker (Communication and Interaction Team) (Full Time)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of neurodivergent children and young people. Understanding the challenges faced by autistic individuals, those with ADHD, and communication difficulties will help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND and Inclusion field. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others who work in similar roles, as they may provide insights or even referrals that could help you land the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by reflecting on your past experiences supporting neurodivergent children. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully addressed their needs and fostered their development.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current best practices and policies related to SEND and inclusion. This knowledge will not only enhance your application but also show your commitment to continuous professional development in this vital area.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker (Communication and Interaction Team) (Full Time)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker position. Familiarise yourself with the essential qualifications and skills needed, especially those related to supporting neurodivergent children.
Tailor Your Application: When filling out your application, specifically address how your experience aligns with the job description. Highlight any relevant qualifications, such as your BTEC Diploma or NVQ Level 3, and provide examples of your work with autistic young people or those with communication needs.
Use the Person Specification: Utilise the 'Person Specification' section of the application form to clearly demonstrate how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria. Be specific about your skills and experiences that relate directly to the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a support role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Environmentjournal
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
Make sure to express your genuine interest in supporting neurodivergent children and young people. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to inclusion and how you can make a positive impact in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Relevant Qualifications
Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, such as your BTEC Diploma or NVQ Level 3 certifications. Highlight any recent training you've undertaken in speech and language support, as this will show your dedication to professional development in the field.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios. Think of examples where you've successfully supported children with communication needs or worked collaboratively with other teams, and be ready to explain your approach and outcomes.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Team's Work
Research the Communication and Interaction Team and their objectives. Understanding their methods and challenges will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate how your skills align with their goals during the interview.
