Job Title: Student Support Assistant (SSA)
Location: Kent, United Kingdom
Type: Full-time & Part-time Available
Salary: £12.80 to £13.80 per hour (inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay)
Start Date: Immediate Start

About the Role:

Heart Teaching is seeking a Student Support Assistant (SSA) to join one of our partnered SEN schools, supporting students with physical disabilities, complex medical needs, and associated learning difficulties. This role offers an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people by fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.

In this role, you will work closely with teaching staff, therapists, and other professionals to support the holistic development of students and ensure their educational and personal growth.

Key Responsibilities:

✅ Provide high-quality support to students in both learning and residential settings, promoting intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual development
✅ Assist with personal care tasks, including toileting and mealtime assistance, ensuring the highest standards of dignity and respect
✅ Follow individualized care plans, helping students achieve their independence outcomes
✅ Apply safe and effective moving and handling procedures in accordance with training provided
✅ Monitor and uphold health and safety standards, identifying and reporting any safeguarding concerns
✅ Implement and maintain school policies, including those related to safeguarding, equality, and data protection
✅ Use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems such as visual aids, symbols, and assistive technology to support students with communication difficulties
✅ Collaborate effectively with therapists and healthcare professionals to implement specialized interventions and therapy programs
✅ Maintain accurate records and follow appropriate reporting processes

What We’re Looking For:

✔️ Understanding of current practices in supporting young people with special educational needs (SEN)
✔️ Physically fit to support students with mobility needs and follow moving and handling protocols
✔️ Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build strong professional relationships with colleagues and students
✔️ A nurturing, resilient, and positive nature, with a strong commitment to maintaining appropriate relationships and boundaries with students
✔️ Ability to work independently, take initiative, and seek advice when necessary
✔️ A commitment to promoting British values such as democracy, tolerance, and respect

Requirements:

📚 An enhanced DBS certificate on the update service (or willingness to apply for one)
🌍 Right to Work in the UK
📞 Ability to provide two professional references from the last 2 years
✅ Willingness to successfully complete our Vigurs vetting process to ensure compliance with safeguarding and recruitment standards

About the School:

The school is a residential and day special school (rated Ofsted Good) that caters to students aged 4-19 with physical disabilities, complex medical needs, and associated learning difficulties. With a dedicated team of over 250 professionals providing specialist teaching, social care, therapies, and nursing care, the school offers a supportive and enriching environment that empowers students to thrive.

What Heart Teaching Can Offer You:

💸 Competitive pay rates (£12.80 – £13.80 per hour)
📚 FREE ongoing training and continued professional development (CPD) to enhance your skills and career progression
👥 £250 refer-a-friend scheme
🔐 Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

Why Join Heart Teaching?

At Heart Teaching, we prioritize the safety and well-being of all children. We conduct rigorous safeguarding checks, offer ongoing training, and uphold high standards to ensure a secure learning environment.

⚠️ Important Information:

• It is strictly prohibited to apply for roles involving regulated activity with children if you are barred from such activity. Applying while barred may result in legal consequences.