At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils in their learning journey and foster a positive school environment.
- Company: West Lothian Council, dedicated to transforming education services.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for education and willingness to register with the SSSC.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Advert 2 x 12.5 hrs per week, 39 weeks per year, Fixed Term until 11 April 2027. West Lothian Council reserve the right to close this post early depending on applicant response levels.
West Lothian Council are committed to far reaching changes to the way we deliver our Education Services. These changes include giving you the support and environment that you need to get on with your job and develop your abilities. Our dedication is demonstrated by the whole council achievement of the Investors in People Standard and always aiming a little higher in our service delivery and improvements.
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Whitdale Primary School is a large non-denominational school serving the east side of Whitburn, West Lothian. The school roll is 295 and there are currently 13 classes. The school senior leadership team comprises of a Head teacher and Depute Head teacher who have been in post since August 2023, two Principal Teachers, one of which took up post in October 2023 and the other who has been in post since August 2023. Support and administrative staff provide good support for learning and teaching. The staff team continue to engage with the whole school community to ensure the best possible outcomes for our learners. The school benefits from a recently reformed Parent Council body ‘The Support Squad’. We continue to work hard to embed our vision and values.
Our school context is: 34.92% of children live in an area classified as quintile 1, 33.9% quintile 2, 12.54% quintile 3 and 17.63% quintile 4 and 0% quintile 5. 37.29% of our learners are in receipt of free school meals. The strengths of our school are identified as the culture and ethos based on positive relationships, leadership of all, enabling staff and increasing pupils to have confidence to initiate change, strategic direction and pace of change through robust self-evaluation. We are ranked 16 out of 68 primary schools.
This position requires registration with the Scottish Social Services Council. The successful candidate will have three months from commencement in this post to register with the SSSC and to start working towards a relevant qualification within a 5 year period. If you are already registered with SSSC you will be required to add West Lothian Council to your account.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to a formal offer of employment being made by West Lothian Council.
For further information please contact Sharon Wallace, Headteacher e-mail: Sharon.wallace@westlothian.org.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pupil Support Worker PEF x 2, Whitdale Primary School, 506.11 - WEL10533 in Bathgate
✨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 West Lothian 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 West Lothian 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 West Lothian Council's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Pupil Support Worker PEF x 2, Whitdale Primary School, 506.11 - WEL10533 in Bathgate
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 West Lothian 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 West Lothian Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian 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 West Lothian 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 Pupil Support Worker PEF x 2, Whitdale Primary School, 506.11 - WEL10533 at West Lothian 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 West Lothian Council that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Pupil Support Worker PEF x 2, Whitdale Primary School, 506.11 - WEL10533 role.
