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- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
- Company: Join Hollybank Trust, a respected charity making a difference since 1954.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, mental health support, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of children while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: 6 months UK work experience and a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant workplace culture with fun events and recognition awards.
The predicted salary is between 25500 - 25700 £ per year.
Location: On site / Far Common Rd, Mirfield WF14 0DQ, UK
Job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Public Sector | Education and Training
Salary: £12.29‑£12.39/hr dependent on experience and qualifications
School times: 8:30am – 4pm, Monday to Friday only
Unfortunately, we are not able to offer sponsorship to work in the UK, and we do ask that you have at least 6 months of UK based work experience in any sector.
Hollybank Trust, based in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, is a charity founded in 1954 with a number of adult and children’s residential homes, including an outstanding school, nursery, onsite speech therapy, physiotherapy and hydrotherapy services. We have achieved a reputation for attaining very high service standards, working and educating children and young people who have complex and multiple physical disabilities, medical needs and associated communication, sensory and learning disabilities.
Due to the growing pupil numbers, we currently have a vacancy for a Special Support Assistant to work alongside our dedicated and well-established school team. This role will be varied and busy, as no two days are ever the same at Hollybank, so a level of flexibility and adaptability is key to success in this position.
What we ask from all our colleagues:
- The confidence to challenge the norm and try new ways.
- Being curious by asking questions and showing an interest in training and development opportunities.
- Treating people with kindness, dignity, and respecting boundaries.
- Bringing your best self to work, being happy and positive in the way you work.
What we offer:
- Onsite food and coffee shop (Mirfield site only).
- Discount and reward portal.
- Full employee assistance program.
- Access to workplace Mental Health First aiders.
- Life insurance style benefit.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
- A funded DBS (initial DBS only).
- Access to nationally recognised qualifications.
- Quarterly coffee mornings and annual celebration days.
- Staff recognition awards.
- Early access to wages through the LevelPay app.
- Annual leave that rises with your length of service.
- Enhanced pay rates for overtime and bank holidays.
- Dedicated wellbeing support, and access to departmental wellbeing activities.
Hollybank Trust is committed to safeguarding vulnerable people, and our Safer Recruitment process requires all employees to have an Enhanced DBS check and reference checks in line with our Recruitment & Selection policy. We will pay for your initial DBS check, unless you have a portable DBS; however, if the candidate leaves voluntarily within the first 12 months, £58.90 will be deducted from your final salary payment.
Special Support Assistant (SSA) employer: Hollybank Trustees Ltd
Contact Detail:
Hollybank Trustees Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Support Assistant (SSA)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Hollybank Trust and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the role and the work culture, which can give you an edge when it comes to interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Since no two days are the same at Hollybank, think about how you can demonstrate your flexibility and adaptability in real-life scenarios during your interview. Share examples from your past experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Hollybank Trust. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Special Support Assistant (SSA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of a Special Support Assistant. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team at Hollybank Trust!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people with complex needs shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in their lives!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to read and understand. No need for fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hollybank Trustees Ltd
✨Know the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to research Hollybank Trust. Understand their mission, values, and the specific needs of the children and young people they support. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
Since the role of a Special Support Assistant is varied and busy, be prepared to discuss examples from your past experiences where you've had to adapt quickly to changing situations. Highlighting your flexibility and adaptability will demonstrate that you're ready for the dynamic environment at Hollybank.
✨Emphasise Kindness and Respect
In your responses, make sure to convey your understanding of the importance of treating individuals with kindness and dignity. Share anecdotes that illustrate how you've respected boundaries and built positive relationships in previous roles, especially in educational or care settings.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training opportunities available or how the team collaborates to support students. Asking questions shows your curiosity and eagerness to learn, which aligns perfectly with what Hollybank Trust values in their staff.
