Student Support Worker / Minibus Driver

Barnsley College; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A local educational institution in Barnsley seeks a dedicated individual to support learners with disabilities. You'll provide one-to-one and small group assistance in both classroom and community settings, helping students develop vital life skills. Responsibilities include driving our department minibus to transport learners, ensuring their safety and well-being during journeys. The role requires a compassionate approach, a full UK driving licence with D1 category, and the ability to adapt to meet learners' needs. This rewarding position contributes significantly to the personal and educational growth of our learners.

Benefits

Funded CPD opportunities

Free college courses

Discounted gym membership

Access to GP appointments

Employee mental health support

Free daily breakfast

On-site dining options

Qualifications

• Experience supporting individuals with disabilities in a learning or care setting.
• Full, clean UK driving licence with D1 category entitlement.
• Patient and empathetic approach to foster an inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Support learners in achieving their educational and life goals.
• Drive the department minibus to transport learners safely.
• Provide one-to-one and small group support in various settings.

Skills

Compassion

Reliability

Proactive attitude

Excellent communication skills

Education

Level 2 qualification in Maths and English (or equivalent)

Level 3 teaching qualification (e.g. ETA)

Current and valid MIDAS training certification

Job description

Based in our Learning for Living and Work department, you will make a real difference to the lives of our learners with a range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities. You'll support them to access education, grow in confidence, and build independence. Working closely with tutors and support staff, you'll provide one-to-one and small group support in both classroom and community settings. Your role will help create a positive and inclusive environment where every learner's individual needs are met. Day to day, you'll help our students develop important life skills such as reading, writing, maths, communication, and social interaction. You'll support the delivery of personalised plans, including Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), and promote self-advocacy, wellbeing, and positive behaviour. This could sometimes include providing personal care or using de-escalation techniques when our learners need emotional support. You'll also encourage participation in enrichment activities, community projects, and educational visits to help our learners gain practical, real-world experience. As part of your role, you'll also be responsible for driving the department minibus. This means safely transporting our learners to and from off‑site learning centres, work placements, or activities in the local area. You'll carry out vehicle safety checks, keep records up to date, and make sure the minibus stays clean and roadworthy. During journeys, you'll supervise our learners, support them as needed, and make sure all travel follows college safeguarding and safety guidelines. This is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. You'll need to be flexible, dependable, and genuinely passionate about helping our learners become more independent and confident, both in and beyond the classroom.

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 licence 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. Required

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

Preferred

• Experience supporting learners with disabilities
• 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
• Discounted 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 When you join us, you can expect to benefit from The Barnsley College Advantage. This is the advantage of