Support Worker

Supply Desk; Southampton; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational staffing agency in the UK is seeking a passionate SEN Support Worker to support students with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) in a secondary school. The role is full-time, starting in January and lasting until Easter 2026, with a strong chance of extension to July 2026. Responsibilities include providing physical support, engaging students in activities, and assisting tailored learning. Ideal candidates will have experience in education and a compassionate approach to student needs.

Qualifications

• Experience working with SLD and PMLD students is essential.
• Confident in providing physical support and personal care.
• Must be resilient and enthusiastic in a specialist school.

Responsibilities

• Provide essential physical support to students.
• Engage students in meaningful activities.
• Assist with sensory-based learning.

Skills

Experience in education or care

Understanding of SLD and PMLD

Strong communication skills

Empathetic approach

Ability to work 1:1 with students

Resilience and adaptability

Skills in emotional regulation

Job description

Salary: £21,000 – £28,000 per year Daily Rate: From £90.28 per day (based on a 7‑hour shift, increasing with experience) Hours: 08:15 AM – 16:00 PM, Monday to Friday Contract: Full‑time, January – Easter (potential extension to July 2026)

Supply Desk is seeking a compassionate, proactive SEN Support Worker to join a specialist secondary school located on the border of the New Forest. The school supports students aged 11–16 with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), offering a highly nurturing and structured environment.

This long‑term role begins in January, running initially until Easter, with a strong possibility of continuing until July 2026. You will be providing essential physical support, engaging students in meaningful activities, and helping them access learning in a safe, supportive setting.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about working with young people with complex needs and wants to make a genuine difference every day.

• Provide physical support to students with SLD and PMLD, including mobility assistance and personal care where required
• Support students in accessing learning activities tailored to their individual needs
• Build positive, trusting relationships to help students feel safe, engaged, and understood
• Assist with sensory‑based learning, communication development, and structured routines
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and support staff to deliver personalised learning plans
• Help maintain a calm, inclusive, and stimulating environment both in the classroom and around the school
• Promote independence, wellbeing, and positive interactions

• Experience working in education, care, SEN, youth work, or social care settings

• Understanding of supporting students with SLD, PMLD, complex needs, or physical disabilities

• Confident providing physical support and comfortable with personal care duties

• Strong communication skills and a patient, empathetic approach

• Able to work effectively with students on both a 1:1 and small‑group basis

• Resilient, enthusiastic, and adaptable in a specialist school environment

• Skilled in supporting emotional regulation and using de‑escalation strategies

• Able to provide two relevant references

How to Apply

To apply, please visit www.supplydesk.co.uk or click the apply button below. Due to high application volumes, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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