At a Glance
- Tasks: Support two amazing kids with their unique needs and interests while having fun.
- Company: A caring family looking for a dedicated PA/mentor.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, £15 per hour, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow your skills in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Join family outings and help nurture creativity and emotional well-being.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, patience, and a love for learning.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
Working Hours and Pay
8 hours per week with flexibility within the week or month, depending on events. 16 hours per week during school holidays to be used flexibly.
Hourly Pay: £15 per hour.
Job Overview
I am looking for a PA/mentor for my two children. My children are very intelligent and absorb new information quickly when it is a subject they enjoy. They both have individual needs, and this role is to support them separately with dedicated time for each. Occasionally you will join us on family outings where both children, parent, and you will attend.
Core Responsibilities
- Personal grooming
- Eating and drinking assistance
- Other relevant duties as required
- Transportation
- Companionship
- Looking after pets
- Emotional regulation
Main Responsibilities for My Son
- Chatting about collections and interests at home
- Playing games such as chess or online Star Wars games
- Helping to care for his pet dog
- Supporting his special interests in creating videos and short drama bursts related to Doctor Who or Star Wars
- Accompanying to a range of SEND events with his parent and sibling, ensuring he is emotionally regulated with your full attention throughout the sessions. Be ready to leave early and bring him home if he feels overwhelmed.
Main Responsibilities for My Daughter
- Visiting the park, woods, bowling, or climbing with her in the community
- Building out of boxes and doing crafts at home
- Helping her care for her pet guinea pigs
- Assisting her in editing movies she makes
- Accompanying to a range of SEND events with parents and sibling, ensuring she is emotionally regulated with your full attention throughout the sessions. Be ready to leave early and bring her home if she feels overwhelmed.
Typical Events
- Swimming at Coral Reef Bracknell on Wednesday evenings 5-9 pm once a month (someone willing to go in the pool with him is essential).
- Visits to adventure centres or theme parks (e.g., Thorpe Park) on Saturdays or Sundays between 10 – 4 pm, depending on activity and travel.
- SEND activity days such as ASPENS or Lodge Hill, up to 4 hours at any time between 10 – 3 pm.
- Family trips to the beach.
Candidate Requirements
- Respectful of employer's privacy and confidentiality
- Reliable with good time‑keeping
- Able to follow instructions and work independently
- Hygienic, tidy and well‑organised
- Fit and healthy enough to undertake required duties
- Patient, calm, friendly and possessing excellent interpersonal skills
- Honest and cheerful
- Creative
- Able to speak and read English to a reasonable standard
- Comfortable with pets (dog, snake, geckos, stick insects)
- Capable of always working to high standards of health & safety
- Willing to learn the best ways to engage with both children and build trusting relationships
- Knowledge and experience of working with children with SEND and a willingness to learn more about autism, PDA, ADHD and RSD
All applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be willing to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check if required.
Disability Confident: We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all applicants, including those with disabilities.
PA/Mentor DP7859 in Horsham employer: Independent Lives
As a PA/Mentor, you will find a rewarding and flexible work environment that prioritises the individual needs of children with special educational needs. Our supportive culture encourages personal growth and creativity, allowing you to make a meaningful impact while enjoying family outings and engaging activities. With a commitment to inclusivity and respect for privacy, this role offers a unique opportunity to develop trusting relationships in a nurturing setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PA/Mentor DP7859 in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the family before the interview! If you can, reach out and ask about their interests or any specific needs they might have. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to engage with the kids.
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared to showcase your skills during the interview. Bring along examples of activities you could do with the children, like fun games or creative projects. This will help them see how you can connect with both kids.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! The family is looking for someone who can build a trusting relationship with their children, so let your friendly and cheerful side shine through in your conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and you can keep track of your progress. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace PA/Mentor DP7859 in Horsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see who you are beyond your qualifications. Share a bit about your interests and how they relate to the role, especially your experience with children.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application specifically for this role. Highlight any relevant experience you have with SEND and how you can support both children’s individual needs. We love seeing applicants who take the time to connect their skills to our requirements!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to break down your experiences and skills, making it easier for us to see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Independent Lives
✨Know the Kids
Before the interview, take some time to understand the specific needs and interests of the children you'll be working with. Familiarise yourself with their hobbies, like chess or crafting, and think about how you can engage with them during your time together.
✨Show Your Patience
During the interview, demonstrate your patience and calmness. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed challenging situations, especially with children who have special educational needs. This will show that you're well-prepared for the role.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Since the job requires flexibility in hours and activities, be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Mention any previous experiences where you've had to adjust your schedule or approach to meet the needs of others.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show your genuine interest in the family and the role. Inquire about the children's favourite activities or how they typically handle overwhelming situations. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if you're a good fit for their needs.
