Northgate School Academy Trust  is a successful school in Northampton, serving children and young people aged between 11 and 18.  All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan. The school caters for a range of complex needs in particular:

• Moderate learning difficulties
• Autism
• Speech, Language and Communication difficulties

Whilst we recognise that our children and young people have special educational needs we also work hard to recognise and celebrate and build upon their strengths and encourage them to be 'their best self'.

We require a family support worker to join our dedicated team to work in partnership with families to strengthen relationships and capacity and to reduce barriers to learning by increasing parental engagement in their local community and in their young person’s education. You will have working knowledge and demonstrable understanding of The Children Act of 1989 & 2004, Child protection and safeguarding issues and data protection. You will be an effective communicator who easily builds relationships with people.

In particular, we are looking for someone to:

1. Work closely with families and young people and complete home visits, as required
2. Work with outside agencies to ensure the best outcome for families and young people such as Housing, NSPCC, Sure Start, Social Care etc.
3. Support all areas of Child Protection and Safeguarding and act as a designated safeguarding officer (DSO)
4. Complete Early Help assessment referrals, as required
5. Co-ordinate, attend and contribute to LAC/PEP/CIN/TAF review meetings
6. Assist with the organisation of Parent/Carer Forum meetings and training sessions
7. Keep abreast of new initiatives, policies and legal requirements through regular training.
8. Work directly with young people developing positive relationships and providing appropriate support to address a range of needs including disruptive behaviour and anxieties.
9. Actively support and contribute to student reports and annual reviews as required. 
10. To provide opportunities for families to engage with the school before their child begins their placement.
11. To maintain records in accordance with the policies and procedures in place in school, including case studies.
12. Support Student Leadership Programme and run the Student Council.
    
    

 In return, we offer:

• A friendly and inclusive working environment and the chance to be part of a fantastic team who work hard and support each other
• Children and young people who are keen to learn
• A school determined to support wellbeing and work-life balance
• High quality continual professional development and training

Benefits:         

Sick Pay

Teacher and support staff pension scheme available

Free on-site car parking

Regular training and development, team and wellbeing sessions

Employee Assistance Programme (Relate)

We do not expect teachers to come to school knowing “everything there is to know” about SEND, however previous experience would be an advantage.

What next? If you are interested in the position, please do not hesitate to contact the Headteacher, Mrs Francesca Shears via email: l.collins@northgateacademy.org.uk to find out more about this great opportunity.

Northgate School Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects staff to share this commitment.  We will ensure that our recruitment and selection process reflects this commitment.

The post is subject to an Enhanced DBS clearance, medical clearance and references that are satisfactory to the school.

Closing date for applications: 22 May 2026

Interviews: To be confirmed

Start date: As soon as possible

Salary range: £29,540 to £32,597 full time salary