At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a student with complex communication needs and help them thrive in their learning journey.
- Company: Woodpecker Court, a nurturing environment focused on hands-on learning and community.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, supportive team, and access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Other info: Enjoy a unique setting with outdoor classrooms and a working farm.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a young person's life while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with communication needs and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 16343 - 16343 £ per year.
Are you passionate about making a difference in a young person’s life? Woodpecker Court is seeking a dedicated and nurturing 1:1 Support Staff member (Communication) to support a student with complex communication needs to access learning, build independence, and feel fully included.
About the Role
This is a rewarding, hands‑on role where you will work closely with one student, supporting their education, communication, and personal development.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide personalised 1:1 educational and emotional support
- Adapt learning and use sensory approaches to engage the student
- Support communication using tools such as Grid or Widget
- Encourage independence and positive behaviour through routines
- Work alongside tutors, SENCO, therapists, and professionals
- Record observations and support progress reviews
To succeed in this role, you will
- Have experience with children or young people with additional communication/SEN needs
- Be confident using or willing to learn communication tools
- Show patience, empathy, and resilience
- Understand sensory and communication needs
- Communicate effectively and build strong relationships
- Be adaptable, proactive, and calm under pressure
- Work well independently and as part of a team
- Support behaviour positively and consistently
- Be organised and able to record progress
- Be committed to safeguarding and inclusion
Hours and Salary
The role is 28.49 hours per week: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 8:45am–2:30pm, and Tuesday 8:45am–4:30pm for staff meetings and training. It is term time plus 5 staff development days (39 weeks per year). The salary is £26,436.80 FTE (Kent Scheme KS D), with an actual salary of £16,343.39 per annum pro rata.
Why Join Us
Woodpecker Court offers a unique setting with woodland, a working farm, outdoor classrooms, and hands‑on learning opportunities. Our curriculum blends practical experiences with academic learning, creating a strong sense of community. You will be joining a supportive, values‑driven team and have access to a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and follow safer recruitment practices in line with KCSIE 2025. This role requires an enhanced DBS check, two satisfactory references, verification of identity, qualifications and right to work in the UK, exploration of employment gaps, a criminal record self‑declaration, and online checks for shortlisted candidates. Our Child Protection Policy is available at www.woodpeckercourt.co.uk.
1:1 Support Staff (Communication) - Part-time in Dover employer: Sandwich Infant
Woodpecker Court is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a unique setting that includes woodland and outdoor classrooms, employees benefit from hands-on learning opportunities and a supportive, values-driven team culture. The role offers flexible hours during term time, access to professional development, and a confidential Employee Assistance Programme, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in young people's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 1:1 Support Staff (Communication) - Part-time in Dover
✨Get Involved in Community Events
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Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Sandwich Infant. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
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When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
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We think you need these skills to ace 1:1 Support Staff (Communication) - Part-time in Dover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Sandwich Infant. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Sandwich Infant.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwich Infant
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Sandwich Infant.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a 1:1 Support Staff (Communication) - Part-time at Sandwich Infant.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
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Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Sandwich Infant that you're ready to hit the ground running in the 1:1 Support Staff (Communication) - Part-time role.
