At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils' health and welfare needs, including medication and personal care.
- Company: Join Ivy House School, a supportive environment for special educational needs.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, health plan, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for career growth in a compassionate community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a caring team.
- Qualifications: Experience with vulnerable individuals and strong communication skills preferred.
The predicted salary is between 18984 - 19283 £ per year.
Due to additional funding, we are seeking to appoint Health and Welfare Support Assistants (HWSA) with the capacity to support the health and welfare needs of all pupils at Ivy House School. You will support the pupils in several areas across school. Predominantly this will be safely administering enteral feeding and supporting the administration of medication but may also include elements of supporting personal and intimate care, pupils’ physical needs, therapies (such as rebound and hydro therapy) and classroom support.
The successful candidate will be pupil-focused and have the desire and ability to support all our students with care and mutual respect. You will be able to work as part of a team and be keen to learn and develop. You will also have a strong commitment to improving the lives of all our pupils and ensuring they are happy, comfortable, safe and ready to learn.
A proven track record of working successfully with vulnerable children and/or adults in an education, health or care context and excellent communication skills are desirable for this role. Ideally you will have experience of enteral feeding and experience of the necessary clinical competencies to carry out enteral feeding and the administration of enteral medication. However, full training and competencies will be provided.
Ivy House School is a special school for pupils aged 2-19. We offer a happy and supportive environment, where pupils are given the best opportunities through an individualised curriculum and pathway.
At Ivy House School we believe that it is imperative that everyone within our community is: “working together to inspire, nurture and empower”. This vision captures the importance of the multidisciplinary approach from all stakeholders including families, education, social care and health professionals to ensure that we create an offer for our learners that is aspirational (Inspire), offers holistic and personal development, removing barriers to learning (Nurture) and enables students to be as independent as possible so that they are well prepared for life after school, into adulthood and ensuring that no dream is out of reach (Empower).
Our pupils like to come to school. They are justifiably proud of what they achieve and enjoy celebrating not only their own successes but also those of their friends and other peers from across the school.
We have a highly motivated, professional and well-trained team of staff who work collaboratively with parents, carers and other professionals to ensure that all aspects of our offer meet the needs of each of our pupils.
Shaw Education Trust is a dynamic and growing family of Primary, Secondary, and Special Schools, proudly serving communities from Birmingham to Bury. Our mission is to unlock opportunity for every young person—whatever their background, ability, or starting point. Our people are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to their growth. Through high-quality training, apprenticeships, talent acceleration, and research opportunities, we empower our staff to thrive as skilled, confident professionals and we champion wellbeing, value every voice, and create a culture where you feel supported, motivated, and inspired to make a real difference.
You will join a collaborative network of schools where shared expertise and professional community fuel success. Every academy in our Trust has an equal voice, and every colleague plays a vital part in shaping tailored learning experiences that raise aspirations and build brighter futures.
Our Special Schools are dedicated to supporting children and young people with a broad spectrum of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. From those with profound medical conditions and life-limiting illnesses, to individuals with severe, moderate, or sensory needs, and those experiencing social, emotional, or mental health challenges, our settings are designed to provide the care, understanding, and expertise each young person needs to thrive.
Shaw Education Trust offers the following employee benefits with your Teaching or Support Staff employment:
- An excellent Local Government Pension Scheme (Support Staff) / Teachers Pension (Teaching Staff)
- Generous holiday entitlement from your first day of employment (37 days holiday rising to 39 days after 5 years’ service including Bank Holidays)
- Access to Medicash Health & Wellbeing Plan: Enjoy health services designed to support your well-being.
- Free DiscountForTeachers Scheme for all staff (Support and Teaching)
- Exclusive discounts to save money with a wide selection of discounts and exclusive offers from hundreds of the biggest brands.
- Free Eye Tests
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access to our Institute of Education and fantastic opportunities to help you grow, contribute and flourish in your role and in the Trust.
Colleagues within the Trust benefit from:
- Access to a full range of courses both in-house and professionally accredited.
- Experienced leadership and subject-specific support.
- Guidance from former HMIs and serving Ofsted Inspectors within the Trust.
- Access to the Trust’s Institute of Education and SCITT.
- Opportunities to work with different schools within the Trust as a Professional Advocate.
- Participating in peer reviews.
- Access to a suite of online courses.
- Placement projects within our family of schools.
Actual Salary: £18,984-£19,283
Working hours: 32.5 hours per week, 38 weeks per year plus 5 days Inset
Contract type: Fixed term until July 2026 with the potential of an extension
Safeguarding Statement: Ivy House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This position is subject to robust vetting procedures, including an online search for all shortlisted candidates, in line with our Trust’s commitment to safer recruitment. An enhanced criminal record check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is required.
Shaw Education Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer. We are fully committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection processes promote equality, diversity, and inclusion at every stage.
In accordance with our safer recruitment policy CVs alone will not be accepted. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date as we review applications on an ongoing basis and interviews may be arranged as suitable candidates are identified, therefore, we encourage early applications.
Successful candidates will be subject to a fully Enhanced DBS check along with other relevant employment checks.
Health and Welfare Support Assistant (HWSA) in Derby employer: Ivy House School
Ivy House School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the personal and professional development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture in the serene surroundings of Golders Hill Park. As a 1:1 Learning Support Tutor, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying a collaborative environment that values inclusivity and individuality. With ongoing training and growth opportunities, Ivy House School is committed to nurturing your career in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Health and Welfare Support Assistant (HWSA) in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! If you can, take a tour of Ivy House School. It’s a great way to see the environment and meet some of the team. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and what they love about working there. This insider info can give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your past experiences align with the role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported vulnerable individuals in the past. We want to hear your stories!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at Shaw Education Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace Health and Welfare Support Assistant (HWSA) in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting pupils shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives and are excited about the role.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experience, especially if you've worked with vulnerable children or in health and welfare settings. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use simple language to explain your skills and experiences, so we can easily see how you'd fit into our team at Ivy House School.
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 ensures you’re considered for this amazing opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ivy House School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Health and Welfare Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with enteral feeding, medication administration, and personal care. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're ready to support the pupils effectively.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, express your genuine desire to improve the lives of vulnerable children. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to care and respect for students. This will resonate well with the interviewers and demonstrate that you align with their values.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous positions. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and work alongside various professionals to create a supportive environment for pupils.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to supporting pupils or the training provided for new staff. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.