Job Description

Flexible Disability Support Worker - Term-Time Only, No Nights or Weekends

Summary

If you have a background in care or support work and want a more structured, rewarding role, this could be your next step. A specialist school in Whitehaven is seeking a compassionate Disability Support Worker to support pupils with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), autism, and non-verbal communication needs. This classroom-based position offers part-time flexibility and consistent weekday hours--perfect for those looking to leave behind shift work, lone working, or unsociable hours.

The Role

Working one-to-one and in small groups, you'll help pupils engage with their learning, develop independence, and build trust and confidence in a nurturing setting. Responsibilities include:

Providing tailored support to children with PMLD, ASD, and complex needs Supporting classroom routines and sensory-based activities Promoting communication using tools like PECS and Makaton Assisting with emotional regulation and social interaction Delivering personal care when required, with dignity and respect Working closely with teachers, therapists, and fellow support staff to deliver individualised strategies

Who We're Looking For

This role is ideal for someone who has experience supporting children or adults with disabilities--whether in a residential, community, or school setting--and is now looking for a stable, daytime-only position. The ideal candidate will have:

Experience with PMLD, ASD, or non-verbal individuals A relevant qualification (e.g. Health and Social Care, TA certificate, or equivalent) A calm, patient, and empathetic approach Confidence working as part of a team and following care or education plans The resilience to support children with complex needs

The School

You'll join a nurturing, well-resourced specialist setting with a warm and supportive team. The school is known for its focus on individual progress, inclusive ethos, and commitment to building strong partnerships with families and therapists.

Hours

Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 3.30pm, term-time only. Part-time applications are welcomed, with flexibility to work mornings, afternoons, or fewer days per week. No night shifts. No weekend work.

The Benefits

Competitive pay, a family-friendly schedule, and the chance to make a meaningful impact every day. You'll also benefit from professional development opportunities and the support of a collaborative, experienced team.

If you're ready to move from care into the classroom and want to help pupils thrive in a structured and supportive environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temp to perm

Pay: 91.00-105.00 per day

Benefits:

On-site parking
Work Location: In person