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- Tasks: Support students with Special Educational Needs in a dynamic educational environment.
- Company: Join the University of Derby, a top-rated institution committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, wellbeing support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Term-time role with a supportive team dedicated to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, plus experience with diverse learning needs.
The predicted salary is between 27800 - 27800 £ per year.
About the University
We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better. The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region. We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.
Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.
About the College/Department
At the University of Derby, our Institute of Education and Skills is at the heart of shaping the educators, trainers, and leaders of tomorrow. We are dedicated to inspiring, developing, and empowering professionals across education, training, and lifelong learning to transform lives and communities. We deliver high-quality programmes that span teacher training, post-16 education, early years, educational leadership, and workforce development. By combining academic expertise with real-world application, we prepare our students to make an impact in diverse educational settings. Our staff are committed to innovation, inclusion, and excellence; engaging learners with cutting-edge research, sector-leading practice, and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
We are proud to work with schools, colleges, training providers, and employers across the region and beyond, ensuring that our teaching is grounded in the needs of society and industry. Whether through developing the next generation of teachers, enhancing workforce skills, or advancing educational research, the Institute of Education and Skills plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education.
About the Role
We are actively seeking two Education Support Workers to join the Learning Support/High Needs Department here at University of Derby Buxton. In post you will support a diverse range of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD), thereby fostering an inclusive educational environment. The role of Education Support Worker is vital in enabling students to engage fully with the varied curriculum we offer, which spans from pre-entry qualifications to higher degree apprenticeships. Our students face differing challenges in their educational journeys, and it is imperative that we cater to their unique learning requirements. You will play an essential role in supporting learners both in and out of class sessions, offering assistance in person as well as online. In this capacity, you will focus on promoting learners’ educational and personal development, ensuring they can access all the opportunities available within our institution. This role not only supports their academic progression but also contributes significantly to their holistic growth. It is an extraordinary chance to join a growing team of committed individuals who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people. The working pattern for this role will be term time only. Actual hours and days will be described in a ‘Schedule of Work’.
About You
The ideal candidate will be a supportive and committed education professional with a solid grounding in English and Maths, demonstrated through GCSEs at grades A–C or equivalent Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy qualifications. You will have experience working with students who have a wide range of individual learning needs, including those with profound and complex learning difficulties. Experience within a Further Education setting is essential, providing you with an understanding of inclusive, learner-focused environments. You will be skilled in contributing to individual programme planning, adapting approaches to support each student’s progress and wellbeing. You will also be able to communicate clearly and sensitively, building positive relationships with students and ensuring learning is accessible, encouraging, and tailored to individual needs.
Benefits
- Annual leave accrual
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family-friendly policies and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a variety of staff discounts at high street retailers
- Discounted onsite gym
- A flexible working environment
- A commitment to personal and professional development
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Carol Heathcote, Learning Support Lead.
Important Information
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and is therefore subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Any information you provide will be treated in confidence and only used when considering your suitability for the post. To enable us to process your DBS check please ensure you are able to supply the documentation listed on the DBS website at interview stage. The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK. The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.
Closing Date: 02 Jun 2026
Area: Operational Support
Salary: £13.37 per hour
Education Support Worker (0079-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB employer: University of Derby
Contact Detail:
University of Derby Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Education Support Worker (0079-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Derby through LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the university's values and recent achievements. Show us that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely aligns with our mission to make a positive impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to supporting students with Special Educational Needs. We want to see how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the University of Derby.
We think you need these skills to ace Education Support Worker (0079-26) - Derby, DE22 1GB
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Education Support Worker. We want to see how you can make a positive impact on our students' lives!
Showcase Your Experience: Don’t hold back on sharing your experience working with students who have diverse learning needs. We’re looking for someone who understands the challenges they face and can adapt their approach to support them effectively.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to communicate your ideas, as we appreciate clarity and directness in applications.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at the University of Derby.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Derby
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of an Education Support Worker and the specific needs of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Familiarise yourself with the University of Derby's values and how they align with your own approach to education.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with diverse learners. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to adapt your teaching methods to meet individual needs, especially for those with profound and complex learning difficulties.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. Use clear and sensitive communication to demonstrate your ability to foster positive relationships with students. This is crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the Learning Support/High Needs Department and the challenges they face. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their mission of making a positive impact.