Job Description

Hours:

35.25 hours per week (8.45 am - 4 pm daily)

TERM TIME ONLY

39 Weeks per year.

Contract:

Permanent

Interview Date:

TBC

Start Date:

ASAP

Salary:

23,213 - 28,209 (FTE 26,824-32,597) per annum pro rata (depending on qualifications and experience)

Do you have a background in supporting children or young people with additional needs, trauma, or emotional challenges?

Are you motivated by helping children feel safe, valued, and able to thrive in their own unique way?
Would you like to bring your care experience into an education setting where every day offers a chance to make a real difference?

If your answer is yes, this could be the next step in your journey.

About You

We're looking for someone who:

Has experience working with children or young people with additional or complex needs -- for example in care, residential, SEN, or community support roles. Understands the importance of patience, empathy, and consistency in building trust. Brings a positive, nurturing approach and a willingness to learn about therapeutic and educational practice. Enjoys being active, hands-on, and part of a collaborative, supportive team. Is resilient, flexible, and brings warmth, humour, and creativity to their work.

You don't need to have worked in a school before -- full training and support will be provided for those with the right values and experience.

About Us

Our Place School is an independent, specialist setting for children and young people aged 8-18 with additional needs, including autism and social, emotional and mental health difficulties.
We focus on each child as an individual -- building trust, understanding their story, and helping them grow in confidence and ability.

Set in beautiful grounds with space for outdoor learning, practical activities, and creativity, our school is far more than classrooms -- it's a community.

This is an exciting time to join us as we continue to grow under new leadership. You'll be part of a friendly, dedicated team who believes in teamwork, humour, and putting children first -- always.

What You'll Do

Work alongside teachers and therapists to support children's emotional and educational development. Provide 1:1 and small group support, using your relationship-building skills to help children engage, learn, and feel safe. Take part in outdoor and experiential learning -- from life skills sessions to forest school and creative projects. Be a consistent, calm, and encouraging presence in the lives of young people who may have experienced significant challenges. Support communication, self-regulation, and independence at every opportunity.

In return, we offer:

A welcoming, supportive staff team who value collaboration and wellbeing. A child-centred environment where your work truly makes a difference. Ongoing professional development, including therapeutic approaches and SEN training. Opportunities for career progression within Our Place Group. Staff benefits including cycle-to-work, tech scheme, and Blue Light Card entitlement.

Application closing date:

Shortlisted candidates will be informed as soon as shortlisting has occurred. However, out of courtesy we will contact all candidates to let you know if your application has been successful.

Safeguarding Statement:

Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We follow Safer Recruitment practices in line with the latest Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance. All applicants will be subject to a thorough recruitment process, including an enhanced DBS check, verification of employment history and references, and an online and social media check as part of our safeguarding due diligence.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 23,213.00-28,209.00 per year

Benefits:

Cycle to work scheme Discounted or free food Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Referral programme
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person