Job Description

School Passenger Assistant

Castles Education provides a specialist education for students aged 7 to 16 with social emotional and mental health needs. Our vision is to

change lives for the better through personalised learning, nurture and preparation for life

and our values are PRIDE:

PURPOSE, RESPECT, INTEGRITY, DETERMINATION and EXCELLENCE.

We are an independent school but all our places are funded by Local Authorities. All of our pupils have Education, Health and Care Plans and we have an outstanding reputation for our dedication to inclusion.

The post-holder will be required to assist on a school minibus from 07:00 to 09:30 and 14:30 to 17:00, Mondays to Fridays during term-time.

Job Purpose

To support the safe and comfortable transportation of pupils with

Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)

needs to and from school, ensuring their wellbeing and safety at all times. The Passenger Assistant works closely with the driver and school staff to provide a calm, caring, and structured environment during journeys.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Escort and supervise pupils with SEMH needs on the school minibus to and from school or educational visits. Ensure pupils are safely seated and appropriately restrained in line with safety regulations. Support positive behaviour and use de-escalation techniques where necessary. Build trusting and respectful relationships with pupils to promote confidence and co-operation. Communicate effectively with the driver, school staff, and parents/carers regarding pupils' behaviour, wellbeing, or any incidents. Provide basic assistance in emergencies, including following safeguarding and first aid procedures if required. Assist pupils getting on and off the vehicle safely, including helping with mobility or accessibility needs. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times. Report any safeguarding concerns following the school's policies and procedures. Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere on every journey.

Person Specification

Essential:

Experience working with children or young people, particularly those with SEMH or additional needs. Calm, patient, and empathetic approach to behaviour management. Good communication and teamwork skills. Awareness of safeguarding and child protection principles. Ability to remain composed in challenging situations. Reliable and punctual with a strong sense of responsibility.

Desirable:

Training or qualifications in SEMH support, behaviour management and first aid. Previous experience in a school or transport support role.

Schedule:

Monday to Friday

07:00 to 09:30 and 14:30 to 17:00

Term Time only

Our successful candidates will have free access to 24 Hour Employee Assistance Programme that provides practical information and support on issues like money management, family and legal information.

We also have a network of Mental Health First Aiders to provide support you in the event you experience issues relating to your mental health.

This is an exciting and varied role where you will be able to make a tangible, positive difference to the lives of the pupils you will support. The job is demanding but immensely rewarding.

At Castles Education, we pride ourselves on our diverse workforce, and ensuring we have an inclusive environment for all our team members. We remain committed to ensuring our teams can bring their true selves to work without risk or fear of discrimination.

Castles Education are committed to safer recruitment, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to rigorous recruitment & online checks and pre-employment checks.

Castles Education is an exempt employer as defined in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order 1975) and as such, we have a lawful basis for requesting an enhanced DBS disclosure certificate for all employees and the post is subject to a six month probationary period.

Proof of eligibility to work in the UK will be required.

f you would like to talk to someone about this role, please contact our HR Team 01427 253117 or email us at hr@castleseducation.co.uk

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From 12,568.00 per year

Expected hours: 25 per week

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Free parking Health & wellbeing programme
Work Location: In person