At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with disabilities in a dynamic learning environment and help them achieve their potential.
- Company: Join YMCA East Surrey, a respected charity dedicated to empowering young people.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounted childcare, gym access, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Term-time only role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in education and relevant training in behaviour management and medical support.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 14 £ per hour.
Our mission is to provide opportunities for people to develop to their full potential, with a focus on children and young people and those who are vulnerable, have a disability or face disadvantage. Are you passionate about working with children with disabilities? This exciting job opportunity could be for you!
We are looking for an experienced Senior Learning Support Assistant-SEND to join our Alternative Education provision. In our Hub, we support Learners to achieve positive learning outcomes through a varied and person-centred timetable. This role requires someone with relevant training in positive behaviour management, epilepsy, safeguarding, as well as experience working with those who require support with medical needs. If you have experience working in an educational setting and are passionate about working with young people who have disabilities, we would love to hear from you. This role requires someone with Health & Social care level 2 or equivalent qualification in School Teaching Assistant.
WORKING HOURS: 32.5 hours per week, 8:30am - 3:30pm (including 30 minutes unpaid break) - Term-time only (39 weeks)
WORKING PATTERN: Term-time only (39 weeks) - Monday to Friday
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- To assist the Hub Disability Leader in delivering high-quality care, stimulating and engaging learning opportunities to Learners attending our Alternative Provision.
- Assist in identifying areas of development and recording evidence for learning progression with recognition of outcomes achieved.
- Support our complex medical Learners, provide 1:1 support and medical interventions.
- Record and evidence learning actions completed for Asdan module work.
- Lead and at times be responsible for a team of LSA’s and volunteers when needed, including daily debriefs and feeding back to the leader or Senior Coordinator.
- Supporting children/young people with eating and drinking as outlined within their care plan and guidelines.
- Provide high-quality, person-centred support to children and young people with disabilities and complex needs, following care plans, behaviour support plans, and risk assessments.
- Contribute to the daily organisation and delivery of activities, ensuring they are adapted where appropriate to be accessible to all Learners to the best of their abilities.
- Attend staff meetings, training, and development events to maintain the knowledge and skills required for this role.
- Provide high level of diligence and surveillance for the Learner you are supporting, including personal hygiene, behaviour, nutrition, sensory and learning needs, feeding back any new observations to the Senior or Leader.
We are seeking candidates who are passionate about working for a charity and making a difference to the lives of the children and young people in our community. If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate.
BENEFITS:
- Be part of a long-standing and well-respected charity
- Discounted childcare for permanent employees
- Gym membership and free access to all leisure facilities for permanent employees
- Eligibility for Blue Light Discount Retail Card
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- 6.6 weeks annual leave which increases after 2 years continuous service
- Free access to our Employee Assistance Programme
Successful candidates will already have the right to live and work in the UK without restrictions. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
An inclusive workplace: We are committed to policies and practices of equality, diversity and inclusion and to supporting our people to make sure our culture is consistent with this commitment.
Accessibility: If you require assistance or have questions regarding the application process, please do contact us at HR@ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk
YMCA East Surrey requires all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced DBS (including the Children’s and Adult’s barred lists) check, along with reference checks.
Senior Learning Support Assistant -SEND in Reigate employer: YMCA
YMCA DownsLink Group is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Brighton and Hove. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring our staff are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Our culture prioritises collaboration and respect, making it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about supporting vulnerable communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Learning Support Assistant -SEND in Reigate
✨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 YMCA, 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 YMCA. 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 YMCA's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Learning Support Assistant -SEND in Reigate
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 YMCA. 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 YMCA.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA
✨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 YMCA.
✨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 Senior Learning Support Assistant -SEND at YMCA.
✨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 YMCA that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Senior Learning Support Assistant -SEND role.
