SEND 1:1 Buddy Support - Headcorn

Junior Adventures Group; Headcorn; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 23,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Assured wellbeing support

No weekend working

Family-friendly hours

Holiday clubs opportunities

Paid training

Job summary

Junior Adventures Group is seeking a 1:1 SEND Buddy at Headcorn Primary School in Headcorn, Ashford. You’ll provide tailored support to a child with Autism and ADHD during after-school sessions in a safe, inclusive environment.

Activities will be sensory and play-based, designed around the child’s interests. You’ll be a calm, reliable presence, support transitions, and work with families and the school to ensure consistent, positive experiences.

Qualifications

• Real SEND experience working with children is highly valued.
• Patience, empathy and creativity help you support the child daily.
• Ability to communicate clearly with families and school staff.

Responsibilities

• Provide tailored 1:1 support for a child with SEND to access the club safely.
• Plan and deliver engaging sensory and play-based activities aligned with interests.
• Be calm, reliable and consistent, aiding transitions and routines.
• Collaborate with the team to ensure inclusion and safety during sessions.
• Support emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies.
• Maintain open communication with families and the school about progress.
• Adhere to safeguarding requirements and complete relevant documentation.

Skills

Patience

Empathy

Creativity

SEND experience

Communication with families

Behaviour management

Job description

Company Description

Make a difference. Support every child. Love your job.

Support a child with SEND in a fun, safe, and inclusive after-school club environment! Join us as a 1:1 SEND Playworker, where you'll provide tailored support to a child with Autism and ADHD - helping them thrive through engaging, sensory-based activities and a nurturing approach.

At Junior Adventures Group (JAG), we believe in creating spaces where every child feels included, supported, and valued. This is a rewarding opportunity to bring energy, patience, and creativity to a unique 1:1 role that makes a real difference in a child's life.

Job Description

Location: Headcorn Primary School, Kings Road, Headcorn, Ashford, TN27 9QT

Hours: Monday - Friday 07:25 - 08:30 & 15:20 - 18:00

Pay: Up to £14 an hour

Contract: Casual

What you'll do day-to-day:

• Provide tailored 1:1 support for a child with additional needs, helping them access and enjoy the club safely and confidently.
• Plan and deliver engaging sensory and play-based activities suited to the child's individual needs and interests.
• Be a calm, consistent, and reliable presence, building trust and supporting transitions.
• Collaborate with your team to ensure inclusion, safety, and structured fun.
• Support the child with emotional regulation and behaviour using a positive, proactive approach.
• Work closely with families and the school to maintain clear communication and consistency.
• Follow all safeguarding, SEND, and Health & Safety procedures, keeping documentation (e.g. incident forms) up to date.
• Be flexible, caring, and responsive to the child's evolving needs throughout each session.

What's in it for you?

• A rewarding, hands-on role where you'll make a direct difference in a child's day.
• Access to 24/7 wellbeing support through Health Assured.
• Opportunities to work in our holiday clubs during school breaks.
• Paid training and regular professional development.
• No weekend working.
• Family-friendly hours.
• Be part of a supportive, fun, and passionate team.

Qualifications

So, what does it mean to be a JAG 1:1 SEND Buddy? It means you're more than a playworker - you're a role model, a guide, and a safe space for a child who needs that little bit of extra support. You'll bring patience, empathy, and creativity every day to help one child truly shine.

This is a complex and deeply rewarding role, ideal for someone with real SEND experience who's ready to make an difference. If you're passionate about inclusion, confident managing challenging behaviours, and thrive in a child-led environment, this is the perfect role for you.

Our people make JAG special. Every day, our incredible team creates positive, meaningful moments for children across the UK.

Learn more about who we are:

Watch our video

Additional Information

Safeguarding

We're committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children in our care. All roles require an Enhanced DBS check, Children's Barred List Check, and are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Appointment is subject to satisfactory DBS and suitability checks. As part of our safeguarding and due diligence procedures, online searches may be undertaken in relation to shortlisted candidates.