At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils and families, providing outstanding pastoral care and overcoming learning barriers.
- Company: Forest Fields Primary and Nursery School, a vibrant and diverse educational environment.
- Benefits: Collaborative team, professional development opportunities, and a nurturing atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while fostering their academic and personal growth.
- Qualifications: Experience supporting children with high needs and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to improving learners’ experiences and well-being.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Pastoral Support Worker – 1 Year Fixed Term Contract, term time only
Grade D point 6 – 9 (pro rata’d) depending on experience
Required: February 2026 or as soon as possible - 1 Year Full time Fixed Term Contract
Forest Fields Primary and Nursery School is a vibrant and diverse school. Pupils are happy and safe. The school makes sure that all pupils know the trusted adults they can talk to about any worries. Relationships between pupils and staff are warm and positive.
Looking for a role in which you can make an impactful difference to support pupils and families? We are looking to appoint a Pastoral Support Worker to join our hard working and friendly team. It is an important pupil-focused role providing outstanding pastoral care, assisting in raising aspirations and supporting our pupils across school, so they can access the curriculum, take part in learning and achieve well by overcoming barriers to learning both within and outside school.
You will be able to pastorally support pupils with Behaviour and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, which may also include conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and other associated learning difficulties. We would like you to work with our pupils and families to achieve the very best academically and personally. You will be able to work within our school community and build positive relationships with our pupils, families and wider networks, supporting our pupils to come to school and access the wonderful curriculum we have in place, with all the exciting opportunities we provide in addition, to enhance learning.
We are looking for people who:
- are dedicated to the welfare and achievement of every child;
- have experience of supporting children with high needs and evidence of the outcome of this support;
- are able to inspire, challenge and motivate all children;
- can be creative, innovative and have a passion for improvement;
- are forward thinking and committed to raising standards;
- have good organisational and communication skills;
- are able to have a positive impact on pupil progress academically and personally, and support their social, emotional and mental health;
- have high expectations of pupil achievement and behaviour;
- are able to build strong, positive relationships with our pupils, families and colleagues;
- are friendly and energetic;
- have experience in restorative conversations and are able to equip pupils with de-escalation strategies;
- have positive restrictive handling training or are willing to train as a positive restrictive handler.
We can offer you:
- a truly vibrant and diverse school;
- a supportive and collaborative working ethos;
- professional, dedicated staff who offer great support and show an uncompromising commitment to improving learners’ educational experiences;
- an evolving curriculum, inspired by children's desire to learn and teachers’ creativity;
- a purposeful and nurturing environment where learners are encouraged to strive for excellence;
- excellent CPD opportunities to further your development;
- enthusiastic learners who want to learn.
Visits to the school are warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit please contact the school direct. Thank you for your interest in this post. Please reference the Job description and Personal Specification attached. We look forward to receiving your application.
Closing date for applications: 9.00 on Thursday 15th January 2026
Shortlisting: Thursday 15th January 2026
Interview Date: Wednesday 21st January 2026
We have a clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and equal opportunities and expect all staff to share the commitment. The successful applicant will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure from the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service), previously CRB.
Safeguarding Statement: We are committed to the safeguarding, protection and well-being of all children and adults. This post is subject to pre-employment checks, references will be requested for all shortlisted candidates and applicants will be required to present documentation to prove your identity, and right to work in the UK. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check.
Pastoral Support Worker in Nottingham employer: Forest Fields Primary and Nursery School
Contact Detail:
Forest Fields Primary and Nursery School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastoral Support Worker in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take some time to research Forest Fields Primary and Nursery School. Understand their values, ethos, and what makes them unique. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling skills! Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've made a positive impact on pupils or families. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers during the interview. This will help you convey your passion and effectiveness as a Pastoral Support Worker.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your approach to supporting children with SEMH needs. Prepare to share strategies you've used in the past, especially around de-escalation techniques and restorative conversations. This shows that you’re not just knowledgeable but also practical in your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a nice touch that can set you apart from other candidates. And remember, apply through our website for a smoother process!
We think you need these skills to ace Pastoral Support Worker in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting pupils and families shine through. We want to see how dedicated you are to making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with children who have high needs or SEMH challenges. We love seeing real examples of how you've made an impact in similar roles.
Be Personable: Use a friendly tone in your application. We’re looking for someone who can build strong relationships, so let your personality come through in your writing!
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 keep everything organised. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forest Fields Primary and Nursery School
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Pastoral Support Worker inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with SEMH and other learning difficulties. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for supporting children during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children with high needs. Highlight any outcomes that resulted from your support, as this will show your potential employer that you can make a real difference in their school community.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. Use friendly body language, maintain eye contact, and engage in active listening. This will reflect your ability to build positive relationships with pupils and families, which is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face as a Pastoral Support Worker, such as handling challenging behaviour or supporting a pupil in distress. Prepare your responses and strategies for these situations, as it will show your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.