Student Support Worker / Driver

Eteach; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 1,000; Full time

Job description

Student Support Worker / Minibus Driver

Learning for Living & Work

Hourly Rate: £13.08 per hour

Contract Type: Variable hours | Approximately 37 hours per week

Reference: REC2129 | Closing date: Wednesday 7th May 2025

Variable Hours

This role is offered on a Variable Hours contract for services, giving you the flexibility to choose whether to accept work offered to you. We’ll provide an approximate number of hours you may be asked to work, however there is no obligation for work to be offered, and there’s no obligation for you to accept the work offered.

The Opportunity

As our Student Support Worker and Minibus Driver in the Learning for Living and Work department, you’ll play a meaningful role in helping our learners with a range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities access education, build independence, and grow in confidence. You’ll provide individual support in both classroom and community settings, working alongside tutors and support staff to create a positive, inclusive environment that meets the individual needs of each learner.

Your day-to-day work will involve supporting our students in developing essential life skills, including literacy, numeracy, communication, and social interaction. You’ll assist in the delivery of personalised support plans, including Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and play a hands-on role in promoting self-advocacy, wellbeing, and positive behaviour. At times, this may involve providing personal care or applying de-escalation strategies to support learners’ emotional needs. You’ll also encourage learners to take part in enrichment activities, community projects and educational visits, helping them engage in meaningful and practical experiences.

In addition to your support duties, you’ll be responsible for driving the department’s minibus, ensuring learners are safely transported to and from various off-site locations. This could include external learning centres, work placements, or enrichment activities within the local and wider community. You’ll carry out vehicle checks, maintain accurate records, and ensure the minibus remains roadworthy and clean. During journeys, you’ll supervise learners, provide assistance where needed, and ensure all travel is in line with college safeguarding and safety standards.

This is a varied and fulfilling role that calls for flexibility, reliability and a genuine commitment to learner development. You’ll be supporting learners to gain the skills they need for greater independence while also ensuring safe and supportive access to a wide range of learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

About You

We’re looking for a compassionate, reliable, and proactive individual who is committed to supporting our learners with a range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of young people, helping them gain independence, achieve their goals, and engage in both educational and community-based activities.

You should have experience in supporting individuals with varying needs, particularly in a learning or care setting, and be able to adapt your approach to meet the specific requirements of each learner. A patient and empathetic approach is essential, along with the ability to foster a positive, inclusive environment that encourages our learners to succeed.

Driving experience is essential, as you'll be responsible for safely transporting our learners to off-site locations. You should hold a valid UK driving licence with a D1 driving license category and a good understanding of road safety and vehicle maintenance. You’ll also be comfortable supervising learners during transport, providing assistance as needed to ensure their wellbeing.

A proactive attitude, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work well within a team are crucial. Additionally, a flexible approach to working hours, as occasional evening and weekend work may be required, is important. A commitment to promoting diversity, equal opportunities, and safeguarding will also be essential in this role.

Below is a list of some of the key skills, qualifications and experience we are seeking for this exciting opportunity:

1. A full, clean UK driving licence with D1 category entitlement
2. Level 2 qualification in Maths and English (or equivalent)
3. Level 3 teaching qualification (e.g. ETA) or a commitment to work towards achieving this
4. Current and valid MIDAS training certification, or a willingness to complete this training

Reasons to join us:

• We invest in our people through funded CPD opportunities, regular staff development training and paid volunteering days
• Career advancement opportunities with tailored support for staff to progress
• Free Barnsley College courses to support your professional and personal development (subject to approval)
• 24/7 access to same day appointments with a GP
• Exclusive discounts and cashback for retail, dining and leisure
• College gym membership with onsite facilities
• Supporting employee mental health through access to free counselling services and the Foundations App
• Free Microsoft Office 365 for personal use on up to five machines
• Access to discounted hair and beauty therapies at our onsite salon
• On site subsidised Starbucks and food outlets offering a variety of dining options
• Free breakfast provided daily for all staff members

Our shared purpose: We believe in transforming the lives of both our learners and staff.

The Barnsley College Advantage:

• Being supported to achieve your personal and professional goals
• A range of flexible working opportunities
• Autonomy, Empowerment and Accountability
• Short- and Long-Term development commitments
• Access to experiencing work in a range of areas
• Working in a Value and Behaviour led organisation
• Reward and Recognition
• Having your voice heard at every level
• Comprehensive Wellbeing Support

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 7th May 2025. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early depending on the level of interest.

Barnsley College is committed to creating a dynamic and diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all candidates regardless of their gender, disability, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or faith. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview. The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure from DBS.

Please be aware that it is a Criminal offence to apply for this post if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity in connection to children.