Student Support in Thorp Arch

We are seeking a dedicated and proactive Learning Support Worker to provide high‑quality support and liaison for learners engaged in Open University and distance‑learning programmes. The ideal candidate will offer personalised academic and organisational assistance, help with course requirements and act as a key point of communication between students, tutors, and partner organisations. You will play a vital role in promoting independence, confidence, and successful study habits, ensuring learners have the guidance and encouragement needed to achieve their goals.

We have a great opportunity available to join Novus, our prison education provider at HMP Wealstun, working as a Learning and Support Worker. This role is offered on a permanent, part‑time basis, working 18.5 hours per week.

Who are Novus? Novus are a leading provider of prison education and have been supporting men, women, and children of all ages for over 30 years across the UK to take new directions. We are also part of the LTE group of companies that include The Manchester College, MOL, Total People, UCEN, and LTE Group Operations. We are currently rated “Good” by Ofsted and have partnerships with over 1000 industry and employer partners, ensuring our learners secure their place as the movers and shakers of the future. Our business is growing year on year due to our continued success as a leading provider in prison education.

Site Information: HMP Wealstun is a Category C men’s prison near Thorp Arch in West Yorkshire, focused on rehabilitation through education, skills development, and structured training. Formed in 1995 from the merger of two neighbouring prisons, it now operates solely as a Category C establishment, offering a wide range of learning, vocational and resettlement opportunities to support men preparing for release. The prison provides modern facilities, purposeful activity, and strong support services aimed at helping learners build confidence, gain qualifications, and progress towards positive futures.

Role Responsibilities: Please see the attached role profile for an overview of general role responsibilities. Specific details pertaining to the nature of the role are shared during the interview process.

Skills, Qualifications and Experience: To be successful in this role, you will need to:

• Hidden Difficulties Level 2 or equivalent (or be willing to work towards within an agreed timeframe)
• To hold Level 2 qualifications in Literacy and Numeracy (or be willing to work towards within an agreed timeframe)
• Achievement of performance targets
• Accurate and timely reporting
• Positive team working

Benefits:

• 35 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (Pro‑Rata)
• 2 hours for wellbeing / personal development per week (Pro‑Rata)
• Significant Pension contributions
• Retail Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Cycle to work scheme

Safeguarding: The LTE Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All applicants will be required to undergo an appropriate DBS check via the Criminal Records Bureau and may be subject to additional online checks as part of our pre‑screening process. Some roles are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and would require an Enhanced DBS check.

Equal Opportunities Statement: Novus is committed to providing an environment where everyone is valued as an individual and where learners and colleagues can work, learn, flourish and develop their skills and knowledge in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. We are committed to working in an inclusive way with all the communities in which we are geographically located and to developing a workforce and learner community that reflects the UK’s rich diversity and vibrancy.

The closing date for this job advert is 18/02/2026. However, sometimes the job advert may close early if we receive a good response!