Education Support Worker

Shaftesbury; Poole; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A disability charity in Poole is seeking a caring and enthusiastic Education Support Worker to support students with additional needs. You will work closely with teachers to promote wellbeing and inclusion, helping students access learning and develop new skills. This role offers the chance to make a real difference in the lives of young people, while being part of a warm and supportive community. Opportunities for professional development and training will be provided.

Benefits

Specialist training

Supportive community

Opportunities for personal development

Qualifications

• Understanding of various interests like art, music, sport, which can be incorporated into learning.
• Willingness to provide support and encouragement to students.

Responsibilities

• Support students with disabilities throughout the school day.
• Help students access learning and develop new skills.
• Create a nurturing and inclusive environment.

Skills

Passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs

Ability to work as part of a team

Excellent communication skills

Strong literacy and numeracy skills

Positive attitude towards training and learning

Commitment to promoting inclusion and wellbeing

Job description

About Shaftesbury Statement

Shaftesbury is a disability charity offering care, education, vocational and rehab services. The charity also provides residential care, nursing and supported living. Within the education sector, Shaftesbury has one school, Shaftesbury Victoria School, and two further education colleges, Shaftesbury Millie College and Shaftesbury Nash College. The school is for students aged 3‑19, and the colleges are for students aged 16‑25. All students have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), as well as physical and/or intellectual disabilities, and some have profound and complex learning needs.

About the Role

We are looking for caring, enthusiastic and reliable individuals who are passionate about helping children and young people reach their full potential. You will have a positive attitude, a strong sense of teamwork, and the ability to build trusting and supportive relationships with students. You will be responsible for supporting students with disabilities and additional needs throughout the school day, helping them to access learning, develop new skills, and enjoy every aspect of school life. Working alongside teachers, therapists and other support staff, you will help create a nurturing, inclusive and safe environment where every student can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

As an Education Support Worker, you will inspire and support students in their learning and daily activities, helping them enjoy school, build confidence and stay safe. Working closely with teachers and therapists, you will promote wellbeing, independence and inclusion while maintaining high standards of care, communication and teamwork every day. Bring your interests, enthusiasm and creativity – whether it’s art, music, sport, reading, computers, cooking or community involvement – and use them to make learning engaging and meaningful for our students.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs.
• The ability to work as part of a team, while using initiative and showing enthusiasm.
• Excellent communication skills and a caring, patient approach.
• Strong basic levels of literacy and numeracy are important for this role. NB: If you do not hold formal qualifications, these skills may be assessed as part of the selection process.
• A positive attitude towards training, learning and continuous personal development.
• A commitment to promoting inclusion, wellbeing and respect for all.

Why Join Us?

At Shaftesbury Victoria School, you will join a warm, supportive community that values teamwork, compassion and creativity. From your first day, you will receive a full induction, specialist training and ongoing opportunities to grow. Every day brings the reward of helping young people learn, achieve and flourish. Your ideas, interests and talents will be celebrated as part of our collaborative approach to learning. Here, your work truly makes a difference, not just today, but for every child’s future.

Safeguarding

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Shaftesbury Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and staff. It is the responsibility of all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS check and will follow our rigorous safer recruitment processes.

Equality and Diversity

Shaftesbury is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. Shaftesbury aims to create and sustain an inclusive work environment which provides equality of opportunity for everyone and reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. The post holder is required to uphold the Equality and Diversity policy and comply with the code of conduct which sets out our standards of behaviour towards those who use our services or work within them.

Application Process

To request a job description and application form please contact [e-mail]. Closing date: 27th November 2025. Interview dates: various. Early applications are strongly encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the advert should we feel able to appoint an appropriate candidate before the above dates. Visits to the setting are welcomed, and encouraged, by arrangement.