At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the care and learning of children with additional support needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Ogilvie School Campus, a growing school dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Join a positive team and gain valuable experience in education and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Compassion, flexibility, and a commitment to high-quality care.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
27.5 hours per week, 39 weeks per year, Fixed Term until 9 August 2026.
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.
Ogilvie School Campus is a school for children with a range of additional support needs arising from complex difficulties, sensory impairments, physical disabilities and Autism spectrum disorder. The school catchment area covers the whole of West Lothian Council. The school is growing year on year as we continue to expand our Secondary offering. This year will see our first S6 Secondary pupils take forward their education at Ogilvie School Campus. The school is currently staffed by a Head Teacher, about 20 other teaching staff, 40 Advanced Pupil Support Workers and 2 Office staff. The school roll is around 100 children. We are supported by a team of health professionals who regularly meet with staff, children and parents.
There is a very positive ethos across the school, staff, parents and partners work very well together to create a whole community to provide the best possible care for our children. We are seeking an enthusiastic Advanced Pupil Support Worker to join the team.
Role Expectations
As an Advanced Pupil Support Worker, you will play a vital role in supporting the care, learning, and wellbeing of children and young people with a wide range of additional support needs and complex learning profiles. The role requires flexibility, compassion, and a commitment to providing high-quality care and educational support within a nurturing, inclusive environment.
Key Aspects of the Role:
- Personal Care: Some pupils may require support with personal care routines, including changing, toileting, and assisting with hygiene needs. These tasks are an essential and valued part of ensuring the comfort, dignity, and wellbeing of our pupils and may be required several times throughout the school day.
- Independent and Team-Based Working: There will be times when you will support pupils individually or in small groups in different areas of the school, depending on their learning plans. At other times, you will work collaboratively as part of a wider class team. The ability to work independently while maintaining clear communication with colleagues is essential.
- Training and Professional Learning: You will be required to complete mandatory West Lothian Council training as part of your induction. However, much of your professional learning will take place on the job — through observation, collaboration, and ongoing professional dialogue with your colleagues. Developing positive relationships with pupils and staff will be key to your success in this role.
- Supporting Dysregulated Pupils: Many pupils experience challenges with emotional regulation and may, at times, display behaviours such as biting, nipping, kicking, or scratching and this may be directed at staff or other pupils. These behaviours are understood as forms of communication. You will receive guidance in positive behaviour support strategies and will learn from experienced colleagues and team discussions to develop the skills and confidence needed to respond safely and effectively.
Requirements
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. Postholders are expected to work towards a relevant qualification within a 5 year period.
For further information please contact Michelle Eckford, Headteacher e-mail: michelle.eckford@westlothian.org.uk
Pupil Support Worker Advanced x 7, Ogilvie School Campus, 500.88 - WEL10042 employer: West Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
West Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pupil Support Worker Advanced x 7, Ogilvie School Campus, 500.88 - WEL10042
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its ethos! Research Ogilvie School Campus, understand their values, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insights into the role and the school culture, plus it shows your genuine interest in joining the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with additional support needs. Practising your responses will boost your confidence and show you're ready for the challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Pupil Support Worker Advanced x 7, Ogilvie School Campus, 500.88 - WEL10042
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with additional needs shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's working with children or in care settings. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role of an Advanced Pupil Support Worker.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to understand and directly related to the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget 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 Ogilvie School Campus.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Advanced Pupil Support Worker. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with additional support needs and think about how your skills and experiences align with these requirements.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, be prepared to share examples that demonstrate your compassion and flexibility. Talk about times when you've supported individuals in challenging situations, especially those with emotional or physical needs. This will show that you can handle the demands of the role.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since collaboration is key in this role, be ready to discuss your experience working in teams. Share specific instances where you’ve successfully worked with colleagues to support a common goal, particularly in educational or care settings.
✨Prepare for Behaviour Management Scenarios
Expect questions about how you would handle challenging behaviours from pupils. Think about positive behaviour support strategies you've learned or used in the past, and be ready to explain how you would apply them in real-life situations at Ogilvie School Campus.