At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children aged 5-18 with disabilities through fun activities and meaningful breaks.
- Company: Kids is dedicated to providing care and support for children and young people in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, travel expense reimbursement, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Work part-time with flexible scheduling around your commitments.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Qualifications: Level 2 qualification in working with children or equivalent is essential; experience with disabilities preferred.
We are looking for enthusiastic and caring individuals to provide meaningful short breaks for children and young people aged 5-18 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). We are now recruiting specifically for workers to support the children and young people in these three postcode areas (WS5, WS10 and B43). These areas are close together, allowing the possibility of supporting multiple families depending on your availability.
You will offer children a 4-hour break every two weeks - or alternatively, 2 hours weekly - depending on what works best for the family. These breaks are meant to be enjoyable and engaging for the young people and are designed to give both them and their families a valuable respite.
Activities may include:
- Swimming
- Soft play
- Parks and outdoor activities
- Shopping
- Cinema trips
- Trampoline parks
- Social clubs or groups
The needs of the young people vary and may include mild learning disabilities, physical disabilities, profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD), communication challenges, personal care needs, or behaviours that can be challenging. Depending on these needs, the child may require either one support worker (1:1) or two (2:1).
For 1:1 short breaks, a valid driver’s licence and Class 1 business insurance are essential. For 2:1 short breaks, driving is desirable but not required. You will collect the young person from their home in a staff member's vehicle and arrange activities directly with the family at mutually convenient times. Breaks typically take place after school, during evenings, or on weekends, with more flexibility during school holidays.
You may choose to support one family or several. Each family offers a minimum of 4 hours of work per fortnight, with flexibility around rescheduling when needed due to personal commitments like holidays or family events.
What We’re Looking For:
- Experience working with children, young people, or adults with disabilities
- Understanding of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
- A fun, proactive, and positive attitude
- Strong communication and active listening skills
- Patience, empathy, adaptability, and resilience
- Reliability and a commitment to high standards of care
- Willingness to learn - full training provided
Essential Requirement: You must hold or be working toward a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in working with children and young people.
Ready to apply? Click the Apply button to take the next step in making a difference.
Sandwell Community Short Breaks Worker in Stourbridge employer: Kids
Kids in Basingstoke is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its staff while nurturing the development of young children. With a strong emphasis on play-based learning, our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, providing Early Years Practitioners with ample opportunities for professional development and meaningful engagement with families. Located in a vibrant community, we offer a competitive salary package along with bonuses, making it a rewarding place to build your career in early childhood education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sandwell Community Short Breaks Worker in Stourbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children and young people with disabilities. Understanding the challenges they face will help you connect better during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to providing meaningful support.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Attend local events or join online forums to meet others who work in this area, as they may provide valuable insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase any relevant experience you have in working with children or young people, especially those with disabilities. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in their lives during your conversations with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Kids and their approach to community short breaks. Understanding their values and mission will allow you to align your answers with what they are looking for, making you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Sandwell Community Short Breaks Worker in Stourbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Sandwell Community Short Breaks Worker position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match what Kids is looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children or young people, especially those with disabilities. Use specific examples to demonstrate your understanding of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Show Your Passion:Express your enthusiasm for working with children and young people in your application. Share why you are passionate about providing meaningful short breaks and how you can contribute positively to their lives.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting your application, make sure to proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kids
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Children
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and young people, especially those with disabilities. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives.
✨Demonstrate Understanding of SEND
Familiarise yourself with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Be prepared to discuss how you would approach supporting children with varying needs, showcasing your knowledge and empathy.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Strong communication is key in this role. Be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with children, families, or colleagues in the past, and how you adapt your communication style to suit different situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would handle them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the job.
