Special Needs Care Worker

GUARDIAN SELECTION LIMITED; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

Job Title: Special Needs Care Worker
Location: Dorchester
Salary: £12.82 - £14.72 per hour (Depending on experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Full-time/Part-time

Do you have a passion for supporting children and young people with special educational needs?

GSL Education offers an exciting opportunity for a dedicated and compassionate Special Needs Care Worker to join a welcoming school in Dorchester. This role is ideal for individuals with experience in care work, SEN support, or social care, who are committed to providing high-quality assistance to students with additional needs.

Role Overview:

As a Special Needs Care Worker, you will work closely with school staff to provide individualised care and support to students with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities and complex needs. Your role will involve ensuring students receive the necessary assistance to access education, develop independence and thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Providing one-to-one and small group support for students with a range of special educational needs.
2. Assisting with mobility, communication and engagement in learning activities.
3. Supporting students with personal care tasks, such as toileting, feeding and dressing, where required.
4. Implementing EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) and working closely with SENCOs, teachers and therapists.
5. Using alternative communication methods such as Makaton, PECS, or assistive technology (if applicable).
6. Promoting students’ social, emotional and academic development through positive reinforcement strategies.
7. Monitoring student progress and well-being, reporting concerns to the safeguarding team.
8. Assisting with de-escalation and behaviour management strategies, ensuring a safe and structured learning environment.

Requirements:

1. Prior experience in SEN support, care work, healthcare, or social care is highly desirable.
2. Understanding of special educational needs, disabilities and person-centred care.
3. A patient, empathetic and adaptable approach to supporting children with varied needs.
4. Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team, liaising with teachers, families and external professionals.
5. Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection policies in an educational setting.
6. Strong communication skills, with the ability to build trust and positive relationships with students.
7. Additional training in moving and handling, first aid, or behaviour management is beneficial but not essential.
8. Have an updated CV (covering the last ten years barring any unexplained gaps) and an enhanced DBS registered to the Update Service (or be willing to apply for one).

What does GSL Education Offer?

1. Enjoy an hourly pay of £12.82 - £14.72, depending on your experience and qualifications.
2. A dedicated consultant providing personalised career support.
3. A highly rewarding role supporting students with diverse and complex needs.
4. Flexible full-time and part-time opportunities to fit your schedule.

If you are a passionate Special Needs Care Worker eager to make a real difference in the lives of children in Dorchester, we invite you to apply today!

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.

As an ethical, inclusive and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.

For more information or to register your interest in the ‘Special Needs Care Worker’ role, please click 'apply now' to submit your full and up-to-date CV and one of our dedicated consultants, will be in touch.