SEND 1:1 Buddy Support - Burgess Hill

Make a difference. Support every child. Love your job. Support a child with SEND in a fun, safe, and inclusive after-school club environment! Join us as a 1:1 SEND Playworker, where you’ll provide tailored support to a child with Autism and ADHD — helping them thrive through engaging, sensory-based activities and a nurturing approach. At Junior Adventures Group (JAG), we believe in creating spaces where every child feels included, supported, and valued. This is a rewarding opportunity to bring energy, patience, and creativity to a unique 1:1 role that makes a real difference in a child’s life.

Location: Burgess Hill Rugby Club

Hours: 2/3 afternoons per week, from 2.45pm - 6.00pm

Pay: £12.71 per hour

Start Date: ASAP

Contract: Term time only, 39 weeks per year

What you’ll do day-to-day:

• Provide tailored 1:1 support for a child with additional needs, helping them access and enjoy the club safely and confidently.
• Plan and deliver engaging sensory and play-based activities suited to the child’s individual needs and interests.
• Be a calm, consistent, and reliable presence, building trust and supporting transitions.
• Collaborate with your team to ensure inclusion, safety, and structured fun.
• Support the child with emotional regulation and behaviour using a positive, proactive approach.
• Work closely with families and the school to maintain clear communication and consistency.
• Follow all safeguarding, SEND, and Health & Safety procedures, keeping documentation (e.g. incident forms) up to date.
• Be flexible, caring, and responsive to the child’s evolving needs throughout each session.

What’s in it for you?

• A rewarding, hands‑on role where you’ll make a direct difference in a child’s day.
• Access to 24/7 wellbeing support through Health Assured.
• Opportunities to work in our holiday clubs during school breaks.
• Paid training and regular professional development.
• Family‑friendly hours.
• Be part of a supportive, fun, and passionate team.

Qualifications

So, what does it mean to be a JAG 1:1 SEND Buddy? It means you’re more than a playworker — you’re a role model, a guide, and a safe space for a child who needs that little bit of extra support. You’ll bring patience, empathy, and creativity every day to help one child truly shine. This is a complex and deeply rewarding role, ideal for someone with real SEND experience who’s ready to make a difference. If you’re passionate about inclusion, confident managing challenging behaviours, and thrive in a child‑led environment, this is the perfect role for you.

Our people make JAG special. Every day, our incredible team creates positive, meaningful moments for children across the UK.

Additional Information

This role requires compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. You must provide two references – one from your most recent employer and another from a childcare setting (if applicable). An Enhanced DBS check will be carried out as part of the hiring process. For more information, please visit: Keeping Children Safe in Education.