At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a bright young man with autism and ADHD, creating engaging activities.
- Company: Join a caring environment focused on empowering individuals with special needs.
- Benefits: Earn £22 per hour, flexible job share options, and support for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while enjoying a fun and dynamic role.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN, confident driving skills, and a compassionate approach.
- Other info: Work with pets and enjoy outdoor adventures while fostering independence.
The predicted salary is between 22 - 22 £ per hour.
Support Worker (Maternity Cover) in St Albans, AL1. A fantastic opportunity for an experienced SEN professional to support a bright, engaging young man with a great sense of humour who has PDA, Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), and ADHD. This role can be undertaken as a full-time position or as a job share, with one person working 3 days and the other 2 days per week.
Nearest Station: St Albans City station is a 5 min walk
Salary/Wage: £22.00 gross per hour
Driving Requirements: Yes – an automatic car can be provided, or mileage paid if using own car on duty
Essential: Confident supporting a young adult with mental health challenges and Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC). A confident driver who is happy to drive long distances. This role is open to female applicants only
Desirable: Mental health training and knowledge of PDA
Start Date: February 2026 (Maternity cover, minimum 9‑month contract offered, with potential to extend)
Days & Hours: The role can be shared between two people: Person 1: Monday to Wednesday, 8:00am to 3:00pm (3 days) Person 2: Thursday to Friday, 8:00am to 3:00pm (2 days). Flexible arrangements can be discussed for the right candidates.
Pets in Home: Miniature poodle & two indoor cats
About the Client/Child: Sam (18) is a bright, articulate, and talented young man with a passion for wildlife photography, nature, Lego, and animals. He has lived independently for the past two years, enjoying his own space while receiving support to maintain independence. Sam has a great sense of humour but also experiences intense emotions and periods of low mood. His biggest challenges stem from anxiety, depression, and managing demands. Sam thrives on structure and control but also enjoys being busy, so part of your role will be creating engaging activities to keep him active and stimulated.
The Role at a Glance: As Sam’s Support Worker, you’ll provide 1:1 support in his home (just 10 minutes from his family). The role focuses on reducing anxiety and supporting his sense of control through collaborative, low‑demands approaches. Thoughtful, clear communication is key; Sam is highly sensitive and responds best to a calm, respectful approach. You’ll also support Sam with his beloved pets, including daily dog walks, always ensuring Sam remains in charge of their care. There are additional administrative duties such as managing payroll, carer leave and organising diary and medical appointments. Sam enjoys photography, so a confident driver is essential for accompanying him on longer trips to explore locations for shoots.
This Job Would Suit: We’re looking for a confident, resilient, and empathetic Support Worker who can build strong, trusting relationships. This role suits someone calm, proactive, and patient, able to tune into Sam’s emotional world while providing stability and consistency. The ideal candidate will encourage Sam’s independence while reducing his reliance on parents, balance enthusiasm for outdoor adventures with comfort supporting quiet, home‑based activities.
AL1 | SEN Support Worker Job Share (Maternity Cover) employer: SNAP Care
Contact Detail:
SNAP Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land AL1 | SEN Support Worker Job Share (Maternity Cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the organisation. Check out their website and social media to see what they value. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. This will help you get comfortable with common questions and allow you to refine your responses. Plus, it’s a great way to boost your confidence before the real deal!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! When you’re in the interview, don’t be afraid to let your character shine through. Share stories that highlight your experience and how you connect with young people like Sam. Remember, they want to see if you’ll fit in with their vibe!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you another chance to reiterate why you’d be a great fit. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace AL1 | SEN Support Worker Job Share (Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting young adults with SEN shine through. Share any personal experiences or insights that connect you to the role and Sam's interests.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in supporting individuals with ASC, ADHD, and mental health challenges. We want to see how your skills align with what Sam needs!
Be Clear and Concise: In your cover letter, keep it straightforward. Use clear language to explain why you're a great fit for the role and how you can help Sam thrive. Remember, thoughtful communication is key!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at SNAP Care
✨Know Sam's World
Before the interview, take some time to understand Sam's interests and challenges. Familiarise yourself with PDA, ASC, and ADHD, as well as how they affect daily life. This will show your potential employer that you're genuinely interested in providing the best support for him.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully supported individuals with similar needs. Highlight your ability to build trusting relationships and demonstrate your calm, patient approach when dealing with emotional situations.
✨Discuss Engaging Activities
Think about creative activities that could engage Sam based on his interests in wildlife photography and nature. Be ready to suggest ideas that promote independence while keeping him stimulated. This will illustrate your proactive mindset and understanding of his needs.
✨Be Ready to Talk Logistics
Since driving is a key part of the role, be prepared to discuss your driving experience and any relevant training. If you have mental health training, mention it! Also, consider how you would manage the administrative duties mentioned in the job description, as this shows you're organised and ready for the role.