At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1-to-1 support for pupils, promoting engagement and learning in a therapeutic environment.
- Company: Harmeny Education Trust, a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting children with trauma.
- Benefits: Wellbeing spaces, free gym membership, massage therapy, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Part-time role during term time only, with potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a beautiful woodland setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in education or care, driving licence, and a passion for supporting vulnerable children.
The predicted salary is between 29866 - 32600 £ per year.
Harmeny Education Trust is a charitable organisation providing therapeutic care and education to children who have experienced early years trauma through abuse, neglect and family disruption, referred from all over Scotland. We currently work with children and young people aged 5-18, both on a day and all-year-round residential basis.
We are currently seeking a Social Educator to join our Education Team on a part-time, fixed-term basis, with the primary focus of providing dedicated 1-to-1 support for a pupil within the formal education setting. This post is initially until 2 July 2027; the fixed-term element of the contract is determined by local authority funding, and will remain under review, with the possibility of extension following review.
The role centres on meeting the individual needs of the pupil, supporting their learning, and promoting meaningful engagement within the classroom and other learning environments. The post holder will be able to plan and offer therapeutic experiences to individual children and small groups across the education and care setting, providing a strong link to the residential cottages and building relationships with parents, carers and families.
The successful applicant will be required to work 32 hours per week during term time only. This position is term-time based, with no requirement to work during school holidays. Annual leave will be taken within agreed term-time arrangements. The working pattern for this post is: Monday to Thursday 8.30am-3.30pm, Friday 8.30am-12.30pm term-time only.
The successful candidate will be appointed on the Harmeny salary scale, at a point between 11 and 15 (£29,866 to £32,600) depending on qualifications and experience. The pro rata salary for this role will be £24,155 to £26,366.
The successful candidate will be required to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme and register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). A driving licence allowing the use of our vehicles is essential.
Harmeny is a values-led organisation and a good fit with our ethos is as important to us as having relevant experience. Harmeny is situated in a beautiful 35-acre woodland estate, which includes residential and education accommodation, community garden, orchard, wildlife habitats and children's play areas. Harmeny is located in Balerno on the outskirts of Edinburgh, at the foot of the Pentland Hills; we are easily accessible by bus and there is on-site parking available.
We offer benefits and opportunities that promote wellbeing, work-life balance and staff development. Benefits include:
- On-site wellbeing spaces and free massage therapy
- Free gym membership & psychotherapeutic support
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access to a wellbeing app and counselling
- Access to discounts on shopping and events.
- Access to a comprehensive induction package, and to a range of learning and development opportunities throughout their career with us.
More information on the benefits of working at Harmeny, plus a fuller job description and person specification can be found on our website. If you are interested in joining our dynamic team, please contact Cassie Gaughan, Service Manager by calling the organisation. To apply, please complete the application form via the recruitment section on our website. Closing date: 2 October 2026.
Social Educator (Balerno) employer: Harmeny Education Trust Limited
Harmeny Education Trust Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises the well-being of both employees and the children they serve. With flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development, our Psychotherapy Consultants can thrive in a meaningful role that directly impacts the lives of young people and families in need. Located in a nurturing environment, we foster reflective practice and encourage innovative approaches to therapy, making it a rewarding place to grow your career.
Contact Details:
Harmeny Education Trust Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Social Educator (Balerno)
✨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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited, 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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited. 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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Social Educator (Balerno)
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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited. 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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harmeny Education Trust Limited
✨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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited.
✨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 Social Educator (Balerno) at Harmeny Education Trust Limited.
✨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 Harmeny Education Trust Limited that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Social Educator (Balerno) role.
