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- Tasks: Support students in their learning and promote independence in a caring environment.
- Company: Valence School, a special school for children with disabilities.
- Benefits: Paid training, holiday pay, pension scheme, retail discounts, and subsidised meals.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for helping others.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available, with opportunities for professional development.
Benefits include paid training, up to 6.4 weeks holiday pay pro-rated, opportunity to join the pension scheme, retail discounts, well-being sessions, subsidised meals when on shift, free on site parking, free DBS check and update service subscription.
You can make a difference! You will be responsible for enabling our students to learn, promote their independence and help them to achieve. Valence School is a KCC Foundation day and residential Special School for children and young people aged from 4 to 19, with physical disabilities, complex medical needs and associated learning difficulties. We are part of the Kent Special Educational Needs Trust (KsENT).
Responsibilities:
- Support students within the learning and residential environments in order to promote their intellectual, physical, social and emotional development;
- Promote a caring environment and provide a high standard of care including washing, toileting, bathing and mealtime assistance;
- Ensure that communication with students, staff and other departments is effective and contributes to our high standards of care and personal development for students;
- Maintain excellent standards of safety and good practice in relation to safeguarding, health and safety issues, implementing students' care plans and appropriately using the recording and reporting processes;
- The role will include a substantial amount of moving and handling and personal care.
Although experience of complex physical and medical needs is not essential, as we provide comprehensive training, an aspiration to enable students to learn and achieve meaningful independence is required. The successful candidate will be supported to complete the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, if not already achieved. We also offer a friendly, supportive working environment in a country school setting on the outskirts of Westerham.
Valence School would like all candidates to answer specific questions for the personal statement section. For reference, here is a preview of the questions/headings: Personal Statement Questions. Please read the job description and person specification. Using examples, show how your knowledge, skills and experience meet these requirements and why you are applying for this post. The role involves significant physical support, including moving and handling of children and young people with physical disabilities. Are you physically able to carry out these responsibilities? If not, please give details including any reasonable adjustments.
Please indicate your preferred shifts: Shifts available: 7am-2.30pm; 8.30am-3.30pm and/or 12-10pm. Full Time & Part Time opportunities: School Term Time only. Flexibility to work when you have availability. You do not need to commit to a specific number of hours, but you will be required to work on a regular basis where possible (minimum of 2 shifts per month). £12.60-£13.50 per hour PLUS holiday pay.
Student Support Assistant BANK in Westerham employer: Valence School
Contact Detail:
Valence School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Student Support Assistant BANK in Westerham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Valence School and understand its mission. This will help you connect your passion for supporting students with their needs during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your responses to common interview questions. Think about how your experiences align with the responsibilities listed in the job description, especially around promoting independence and providing care.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to speak with the hiring team, let them know why you’re excited about the role and how you can make a difference in the lives of the students.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Student Support Assistant BANK in Westerham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure you understand what we're looking for. The job description is your best friend here! Highlight the key responsibilities and requirements so you can tailor your application to show how you fit the bill.
Craft a Personal Statement That Stands Out: This is your chance to shine! Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills and knowledge related to the role. Remember, we want to see how you can help our students achieve their independence and learning goals.
Be Honest About Your Physical Abilities: Since the role involves significant physical support, it's important to be upfront about your capabilities. If you have any concerns or need adjustments, let us know! We value transparency and want to ensure you’re comfortable in the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Valence School
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Student Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with physical disabilities and complex medical needs. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to promoting their independence and learning during the interview.
✨Prepare Personal Examples
Think of specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills in supporting individuals, especially in challenging situations. Whether it’s a time you helped someone overcome a hurdle or provided care, these stories will illustrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Show Your Flexibility
Since the role offers various shifts, be ready to discuss your availability openly. Highlight your willingness to adapt to different schedules and how this flexibility can benefit the school. It shows you're committed and ready to step in when needed.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training provided, the team dynamics, or how success is measured in the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.