At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a bright young man with autism and ADHD in his daily life and activities.
- Company: Join a caring family environment focused on independence and personal growth.
- Benefits: Earn £21.00 per hour, enjoy flexible hours, and use a family car for work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while enjoying outdoor adventures and creative activities.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN support and confident driving skills required.
- Other info: This role is perfect for empathetic individuals who thrive on building strong relationships.
The predicted salary is between 20 - 22 £ per hour.
A fantastic position available for an experienced SEN professional to support a bright young man with a great sense of humour who has a diagnosis of PDA, Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) and ADHD.
Salary/Wage: £41,496.00 gross per annum (pro rata for 9 months – £31,122.00 | £21.00 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: March 2026 (Maternity cover, minimum 9-month contract offered).
Days & Hours: 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 3:00pm, plus 3 additional hours per week for picking up and dropping off the family car from South Harpenden to client’s home. (approx. 10–15-minute drive each way).
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. Sam has been living on his own for the 2 years, enjoying his own space and autonomy, with some support in place to help him maintain his independence. He has a great sense of humour but also experiences intense emotions and periods of low mood. Diagnosed with PDA, ASC, and ADHD, his biggest challenges stem from anxiety, depression, and difficulties managing demands. Sam is hypersensitive and finds it hard when he feels a lack of control. He likes to be busy but also needs quiet time. Sam struggles to occupy himself and so coming up with ideas for activities to get him out of the house is key.
The Role at a Glance: As Sam’s Support Worker, you will provide 1:1 support in his own home, just a 10-minute drive from his family’s home. This role focuses on reducing anxiety and supporting Sam’s sense of control through collaborative, low-demand approaches. Clear, thoughtful communication is key; Sam is highly sensitive and easily affected by tone and phrasing. A proud pet owner, Sam has a dog and two cats he adores—support with daily dog walks will be part of your role, always ensuring Sam stays in charge of their care. As part of the role, you will also assist with some admin duties related to Sam, such as managing payroll, carer leave and organising diary and medical appointments.
This Job Would Suit: We’re looking for a confident, resilient, and dedicated female Senior Support Worker who excels at building strong, trusting relationships. This role is ideal for someone empathetic, calm, and proactive, someone who can bring consistency and stability to Sam’s life. You’ll become attuned to Sam’s emotional world, able to recognise when he needs space, and confident enough to communicate with him gently and respectfully. Trust is at the heart of this role; the more secure Sam feels, the more he’ll open up, gradually building independence and reducing his reliance on his parents. A balance of enthusiasm for outdoor adventures and comfort with quiet time at home is key. As photography is one of Sam’s greatest passions, you must be a confident driver, happy to accompany him on longer trips to explore new locations and capture the perfect shot.
Why You’ll Love This Role: This is a rewarding role with the opportunity to support Sam’s independence while easing some pressure from his parents. With plenty of chances to explore new places, it offers variety and adventure. The family is happy for Support Staff to use their Range Rover on duty, if preferred.
Recruitment Process: This vacancy is being managed through Snap Care’s Shortlist Service. We will review all applications and verify the essential criteria are met before passing suitable CVs and contact details to our client/case manager, who will continue the recruitment process directly. By applying, you consent to your details being shared with our client.
Please note: Unfortunately, we are unable to provide sponsorship for any of our vacancies.
If a specific gender is required, this is a genuine occupational requirement under paragraph 1, schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.
AL1 | SEN Support Worker (Maternity Cover) in Saint Albans employer: SNAP Care
Contact Detail:
SNAP Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land AL1 | SEN Support Worker (Maternity Cover) in Saint Albans
✨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 your personality! When you’re in the interview, don’t be afraid to let your character shine through. Share personal anecdotes that relate to the role, especially those that highlight your experience with SEN support. It’ll make you memorable and relatable!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace AL1 | SEN Support Worker (Maternity Cover) in Saint Albans
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with SEN and mental health support. We want to see how you've made a difference in similar roles, so don’t hold back on those examples!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re passionate about supporting individuals like Sam and how your skills align with the role. Let us know what makes you the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since clear communication is key for this role, give us examples of how you've effectively communicated in past positions. We love seeing candidates who can connect with others thoughtfully.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at SNAP Care
✨Know Sam's World
Before the interview, take some time to understand Sam's needs and interests. Familiarise yourself with PDA, ASC, and ADHD, and think about how you can support him in a way that respects his autonomy and emotional sensitivities.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your ability to connect with Sam on an emotional level. Share examples from your past experiences where you've built trusting relationships with individuals facing similar challenges. This will show that you can be the calm and supportive presence he needs.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations with Sam. Prepare scenarios that highlight your proactive approach to reducing anxiety and promoting independence. Think about activities you could suggest that align with his interests in wildlife photography and nature.
✨Communicate Clearly and Thoughtfully
Since clear communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts in a calm and respectful manner. Be mindful of your tone and phrasing during the interview, as this will reflect how you would interact with Sam and help him feel secure.