Specialist Support Worker

East Sussex College Group; Hastings; On-site; GBP 11,200 - 25,700; Part time

Job summary

East Sussex College Group in Hastings is seeking a Specialist Support Worker to provide dedicated one-to-one support to a student with complex needs. You will work closely with teaching staff, families and specialists to create an inclusive environment that enables learning progress and independence.

The role offers part-time hours (20 hours per week, 36 weeks). 12-month FTC extensions possible, with salary around £25,700 FTE pro-rated to 20 hours. A caring, collaborative approach is essential.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and experience supporting learners with additional needs.
• Experience working with learners who may display challenging behaviours.
• Confidence in using appropriate physical interventions when required.

Responsibilities

• Provide tailored, one-to-one support to a student in classroom and other college settings.
• Support communication needs and adapt learning materials to individual requirements.
• Promote a safe, inclusive learning environment and encourage independence.
• Work with teaching staff, families and external professionals and contribute to reviews.

Skills

SEND Code

Behaviour support

Communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Job description

Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can make a real difference to a young person’s educational journey?
Do you want to work as part of a supportive and inclusive team, helping students with additional needs thrive?

Join our Inclusive Learning team at our Hastings campus (Station Plaza site) as a Specialist Support Worker, where you will provide dedicated, one-to-one support to a student with complex needs, including autism, learning difficulties, and behaviours that may challenge.

Working closely with teaching staff, families, and specialist professionals, you will help create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment that enables the student to access their learning programme fully. This is a highly rewarding opportunity for someone passionate about supporting young people, promoting independence, and making a meaningful impact every day.

This exciting role will include:

• Providing tailored, one-to-one support within the classroom, during unstructured times, and across the college environment
• Supporting communication needs and adapting learning materials to suit the student’s individual requirements
• Promoting a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment that encourages independence and confidence
• Working collaboratively with teaching staff, families, and external professionals, contributing to reviews and multi-agency support processes

If you can demonstrate the following, then we’d love to hear from you:

• Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and experience supporting learners with additional needs
• Experience working with young people who display behaviours that may challenge
• Confidence in using (or willingness to use) appropriate physical intervention strategies when required
• Strong communication, teamwork, and proactive problem-solving skills

• Closing date: 24th August 2026
• Interview Date: TBC

College location: Based at our Station Plaza Campus, Hastings.

Annual salary: Circa £25,700 FTE – Circa £11,200Actual

(Subject to qualifications, skills and experience)

Hours: Part Time – 20 Hours/36 Weeks FTC Until July 2027

September start

In return, we can offer you:

A competitive FE salary, generous annual leave & pension, access to funded teaching qualifications, apprenticeships and a range of other training courses to support career development, as well as many other benefits.

For any queries or to arrange an appointment to chat informally about the role please email [e-mail]. Please note we are unable to accept CVs in place of an application under our obligations for Keeping Children Safe in Education.

Other Information

East Sussex College is a values-driven Further Education college with over 1,300 colleagues and 5,500 students across campuses in Eastbourne, Hastings, Lewes, and Newhaven. We offer a wide range of programmes including A Levels, T Levels, vocational courses, higher education, and adult learning.

Our ESC PROUD Values: Positivity – Respect – Opportunity – Unity – Diversity

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles require enhanced DBS checks and eligibility to work in the UK.

We are also committed to making our recruitment process accessible for all candidates. If you require adjustments or support to fully engage with any aspect of the process, please contact People Services at [e-mail] and we will be happy to facilitate reasonable adaptations.

At East Sussex College, we celebrate individuality and strive for an inclusive, equitable workplace. We particularly welcome applications from underrepresented groups, including Black and minority ethnic communities, people with disabilities and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Applications may be shortlisted on a rolling basis, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed.

Recruitment Agencies

We prefer to hire our people directly, but we do have a preferred supplier list for when we require additional support. We will be in touch if we need you.