Job Description

Bale's Farm is an Outdoor Education provider working with young people with a range of SEN supporting them through their educational journey and into work.

We are looking for a Job Coach with a background in Animal Care to support our new learners through their apprenticeships. The role of Job Coach is to enable a person to carry out a work place role which may not be possible for them to do without the additional support. Under the government funded scheme of Supported Employment. This role is unique and will not only involve elements of animal care but also support work and teaching assistant principles.

What is Supported Employment?

1. People with disabilities and/or disadvantages can make a positive contribution in the workplace.

2. People with disabilities / disadvantage should have access to a real job where

wages are paid at the going rate for the job, the employee enjoys the same terms and conditions as all other employees; the job helps the person to meet their life goals and aspirations; the role is valued by managers and colleagues; the job has similar hours and times at work as other employees, with safe working conditions.
3. People are encouraged to exercise choice and control in achieving their career aspirations. Support is individualised and all options assume successful employability.

4. There is genuine partnership between the person, their family carers, employers, community supports and the provider of supported employment.

5. People are supported to be full and active members of their workforces and wider communities, both socially and economically.

6. Support services recognise the importance of the employer as a customer of supported employment in their own right with requirements that need to be satisfied.

7. Supported employment should encourage the career development of individuals by promoting training opportunities and seeking options for increased responsibility.

Job Overview Animal Care

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Animal Care Assistant to join our team. This role is vital in providing high-quality care for animals in our facility, ensuring their well-being and comfort. The ideal candidate will possess a genuine love for animals, along with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while delivering excellent customer service.

Duties

Provide daily care for animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercising. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in animal enclosures and surrounding areas. Monitor animal behaviour and health, reporting any concerns to the veterinary team. Perform heavy lifting tasks associated with moving animals or equipment as required.

Requirements

Previous experience is highly desirable. Strong background in animal care or related fields. Ability to perform heavy lifting and physically demanding tasks. A genuine passion for animal welfare and commitment to providing exceptional care.

Job Overview Teaching Assistant

Experience working with SEN would be an advantage as we are a specialist 1:1 support provision. We provide Educational and SEMH support to a small group of young people all of whom have a high level of complex needs. Our setting is predominantly outdoors with access to lots of natural learning as well as traditional written and computing work. We do have indoor spaces but wherever possible our team and learners like to be outside. The successful candidate will have the ability to work on their own or as a part of the team, the drive and passion to teach young people, the ability to think on their feet and come up with innovative ways to help our young people learn, love being outside and using natural resources and animals to support learning.

All the young people that we support have EHCP's and are working on bespoke timetables tailored to their specific needs. As such they have 1:1 support at all times. We are lucky that we get to work with such an incredible group of young people and help them engage and flourish in their educational journey.

The desire to work with young people and animals is a must! Our young people range in age from 11-24, we offer not only Secondary support but also post 16 options too so there is a real range of young people to work with. We also have a range of animals onsite that are used to support transitions and learning opportunities.

Key roles and responsibilities

Supporting students with learning:

This includes helping students understand instructions, adapting learning materials, providing one-on-one or small group instruction, and reinforcing concepts.

Providing emotional and behavioural support:

SEN TAs help students develop social skills, manage their emotions, and build confidence.

Collaborating with teachers and other professionals:

SEN TAs work closely with teachers, parents, and other specialists (e.g., speech and language therapists) to ensure students receive appropriate support.

Creating a safe and inclusive learning environment:

This includes adapting the learning environment, promoting positive behaviour, and ensuring all students feel included and valued.

Adapting and modifying learning materials:

SEN TAs help make learning materials accessible and engaging for students with diverse needs.

Monitoring and reporting:

They track student progress and communicate with teachers about any concerns or successes.

Attending meetings and training:

SEN TAs participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Managing resources and stock:

They help organise and maintain learning materials and equipment.

Providing first aid and administering medication:

In some cases, SEN TAs may be trained to provide basic first aid or administer medication according to school policy.

Supporting on school trips:

We regularly take school trip which are often topic based and support the learning, we also offer swimming lessons and community engagement for our young people that struggle to access things outside of the home.
Desirable key skills

Knowledge of Special Educational Needs:

A strong understanding of SEND principles and practices would be beneficial.

Communication Skills:

Effective communication with students, teachers, parents, and other professionals is crucial.

Active Listening:

The ability to actively listen and respond to student needs is vital.

Problem-Solving:

Our Teaching assistants need to be able to identify and address challenges that students may face.

Adaptability and Flexibility:

They must be able to adapt their approach to meet the diverse needs of learners.

Patience and Empathy:

A patient and empathetic approach is essential when working with students who may require additional support.

Safeguarding:

Understanding and adhering to child protection policies and procedures is crucial.
The role will be for 39 weeks per year 30 hours per week and additional hours over the school holidays which can be flexibly arranged to suit everyone but also ensure the animals needs are all met.

We always appreciate to hear a little about why you want the role! Covering letters are very gratefully received.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: 12.21-15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 22.5 - 30 per week

Benefits:

Company pension
Work Location: In person