1:1 Support Staff (SEN & SEMH) - Flexible

Woodpecker Court, Dover

• Ref:KCC886-7916-50S
• Posted:24/07/2026
• Pay:£27,441.40 FTE - Kent Pay Scheme KS C
• Start Date:Sept 2026
• App Close Date:31/08/2026 at 18:00
• Interviews:Sept 2026

Advert

1:1 Support Staff (SEN & SEMH)

Are you passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people? Do you have the patience, empathy and resilience to support students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs to thrive? Woodpecker Court is seeking to recruit a number of dedicated and nurturing Support Staff to join our team and welcome applications from individuals with experience supporting young people with SEN and SEMH needs.

About the Role

You will provide personalised support to students, helping them access learning, develop independence, build confidence and achieve positive outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing consistent support for students with SEN and SEMH needs.
• Promoting positive behaviour, emotional regulation and engagement in learning.
• Adapting activities and learning materials to meet individual needs.
• Encouraging independence, resilience and self-esteem.
• Working closely with tutors, SENCO, therapists and external professionals.
• Maintaining accurate records and contributing to student progress reviews.
• Supporting students during lessons, breaktimes, outdoor learning and educational visits.

Hours and salary

Salary is £27,441.40 FTE - Kent Pay Scheme KS C

We have various work patterns available over a Monday to Friday period. Usual hours will be 8.45am to 14.30pm with alternative Tuesdays to 16.30pm. The role is term time plus 5 staff development days totalling 39 weeks per annum.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Experienced in supporting children and young people with SEN and/or SEMH needs.
• Calm, patient and able to respond positively to challenges.
• Skilled at building positive relationships with young people.
• Enthusiastic, proactive and committed to inclusive education.
• Effective communicators and team players.

Desirable:

• Behaviour management and de-escalation experience.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed, therapeutic or sensory approaches.
• Experience within specialist education or alternative provision settings.

What Woodpecker Court Can Offer

Woodpecker Court provides a unique learning environment with extensive woodlands, a working farm, workshop and outdoor classrooms. We combine practical, hands-on learning with academic education and are committed to helping young people achieve successful and fulfilling futures. Staff benefit from a supportive team culture and access to a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.

Safeguarding

Woodpecker Court is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and all pre-employment checks in line with KCSIE 2025.

Apply Today

To apply, please complete and return the application form to personnel@woodpeckercourt.com.

Please note: We are unable to accept CVs alone. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient suitable applications be received.

Information about the school

Woodpecker Court is a specialist education provider with designated Post-16 status, proudly rated Outstanding by Ofsted. We offer a distinctive and inspiring educational environment for young people aged 16–24 who flourish outside of mainstream education.

Our holistic approach integrates academic learning with practical, hands-on experiences in a safe and tranquil countryside setting. We are committed to nurturing each student as an individual, tailoring our support to meet diverse needs and fostering personal growth, resilience, and ambition.

Located in a rural area, Woodpecker Court provides a calm, secure, and welcoming atmosphere where students and staff work together to maintain a strong sense of community. We believe that every learner deserves a personalised pathway to success, and we adapt our practices to ensure each student is equipped with the skills and confidence needed to sustain their onward destination beyond education. Curriculum Offer

Our Post-16 curriculum includes vocational courses in Occupational Studies, Land-Based Studies, Animal Care, Animal Management, Catering and Hair & Beauty.

These are delivered alongside core subjects such as Functional Skills in English, Maths, and Digital Skills, as well as PSHE and Preparation for Adulthood (PFA).

Woodpecker Court’s unique setting features extensive woodlands, a working farm, workshops, and outdoor classrooms that enrich the educational experience. Our curriculum is designed to blend practical learning with academic development, underpinned by a strong community ethos and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.

We are dedicated to helping every student realise their full potential and transition into fulfilling, independent futures.

To learn more about Woodpecker Court please view our promotional video - https://www.woodpeckercourt.co.uk/promovideo

Job Contact Information

• Name:Dawn Fisher
• Address:45 Wigmore Lane, Eythorne, Dover, Kent, CT15 4BF
• Telephone: 01304 830958
• Email: personnel@woodpeckercourt.com

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Job description
• Privacy notice for job applicants