Make a Difference Every Day: Pastoral Support Officer

Hertswood Academy

Are you passionate about supporting young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN)? Do you have the resilience, empathy, and drive to help students overcome barriers to learning?

Hertswood Academy is a thriving, inclusive and happy learning-focused community committed to providing an exceptional education for all our students. We are looking for a dedicated Pastoral Support Officer to join our SEND team. This is a vital role where you will act as a mentor, educator, and advocate for our students, ensuring they feel safe, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

The Role at a Glance

• Salary: £27,254 (H5 SP5) + £500 Hertswood Allowance (FTE)

• Hours: 37 hours per week (Term Time + 5 Inset days)

• Contract: Full-time, Permanent

• Reporting to: SENDCO

Key Responsibilities

As a Pastoral Support Officer, you won't just be "assisting"—you will be a cornerstone of our students' daily experience.

• Direct Pupil Support: Build strong, positive relationships with SEN students, adapting your communication style to meet their unique emotional and social needs.

• Teaching & Learning: Work alongside teachers to plan and deliver differentiated activities, ensuring every student can access a broad and balanced curriculum.

• Environment & Conduct: Support transitions and routines, maintaining high standards of behavior and acting as a "safe person" during social times and lunch duties.

• Collaboration: Act as a bridge between the school, parents, and external professionals (Health & Social Care) to ensure holistic care for every child.

Who We Are Looking For

We need someone who remains calm under pressure and truly enjoys the reward of seeing a student succeed.

• Experience: Previous experience in an educational setting, specifically working with young people with SEN.

• Qualifications: GCSE Grade 4 (C) or above in English and Maths; qualified HLTA or working at HLTA level.

• Skills: Strong IT literacy, excellent verbal communication, and a deep understanding of safeguarding (KCSIE).

• Attributes: Resilient, enthusiastic, and committed to equality and diversity.

Why Join Hertswood Academy?

We are committed to creating a diverse workforce and providing a supportive environment for our staff. You will benefit from:

• A dedicated in-house CPD programme to help you build your skills and qualifications.

• The opportunity to work within a forward-thinking Pastoral Support Team.

• A role where your input directly shapes the educational journey of vulnerable learners.

How to Apply

If you are ready to motivate and challenge young people to be their best selves, we want to hear from you.

For further information and an application pack, please visit My New Term or contact Claire Ronayne at  cronayne@hertswoodacademy.org

Hertswood Academy is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check is required for this post.