At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with vision impairments in educational settings and family homes.
- Company: Join South Tyneside Council's dedicated Visually Impaired Service team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and full training.
- Other info: Term time only role with a commitment to safeguarding and welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people and their families.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm and creativity are key; experience with support roles is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 14.82 - 14.82 £ per hour.
South Tyneside Council would like to appoint an enthusiastic, creative and highly skilled specialist support assistant to join the staff of the Visually Impaired Service.
Responsibilities
- Support children and young people with a range of vision impairments (aged 0–25 years) and their families.
- Work 1:1 and/or with small groups in a variety of educational settings and family homes.
- Receive full support and training from the Visually Impairment Service.
Benefits
We offer an excellent benefits package.
South Tyneside Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) disclosure will be sought along with other relevant pre-employment checks.
We do not currently offer skilled worker visa sponsorship.
Closing date: Noon, 14 August 2026
Interviews will take place on 3 September 2026.
Specialist Support Assistant, 18 hpw (Term Time Only) employer: South Tyneside Council
Jarrow School is an exceptional employer that prioritises staff well-being and work/life balance, making it an ideal place for those passionate about education. Located in South Tyneside, the school fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where employees can thrive while contributing to the development of young people. With a strong commitment to professional growth and a culture rooted in Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility, Jarrow School offers meaningful opportunities for those looking to make a positive impact in the lives of students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Support Assistant, 18 hpw (Term Time Only)
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like South Tyneside Council, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
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 South Tyneside Council. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
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!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through South Tyneside Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Support Assistant, 18 hpw (Term Time Only)
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 South Tyneside Council. 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 South Tyneside Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Tyneside Council
✨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 South Tyneside Council.
✨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 Specialist Support Assistant, 18 hpw (Term Time Only) at South Tyneside Council.
✨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.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
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 South Tyneside Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Specialist Support Assistant, 18 hpw (Term Time Only) role.
