Flexi Support Staff Teaching/Child Support at Woodpecker Court, Dover

Woodlands; Lower Eythorne; On-site; GBP 22,000; Part time

Job summary

An Ofsted Outstanding Specialist Provider in Lower Eythorne is seeking Flexi Support Staff to support young people aged 16–24 outside of mainstream education. The role involves delivering lessons, providing emotional support, and assisting in animal care. Candidates should have strong communication skills and the ability to engage and motivate students. Offering a unique setting with woodlands and workshops, this position provides an opportunity to foster resilience and confidence within an inclusive community. Interested applicants should send the application form to the specified email address.

Benefits

Access to a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience in education, support work, or animal care is desirable.
• Ability to engage and motivate others.
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Delivering pre-prepared lessons and supporting learning.
• Assisting in the care of domestic and farm animals.
• Providing emotional and academic support for students.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Behaviour management skills

Adaptability

Empathy

Education

GCSEs (Grade C/4+) in English and Maths

Teaching/support qualifications

Job description

Woodpecker Court, an Ofsted Outstanding Specialist Post‑16 Provider, is seeking Flexi Support Staff to join our inclusive community supporting young people aged 16–24 who thrive outside mainstream education. Our holistic approach blends academic learning with practical experiences in a peaceful countryside setting, helping students build confidence, resilience, and ambition. This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to make a real impact and difference. You will support students in classrooms, on our farm, in workshops and helping them develop essential life skills.

Responsibilities

• Delivering pre‑prepared lessons and supporting learning
• Providing emotional and academic support for students with SEMH and SEND
• Assisting in the care of domestic and farm animals
• Supporting pastoral needs and promoting our core values: Relationships, Respect, Resilience, underpinned by Routine

The hours are averaged at 28.49 per week, 8:45am–2:30pm (Mon–Fri), with alternate Tuesdays until 4:30pm. The role is term time plus 5 staff development days (39 weeks/year) and the salary is Kent Scheme KS C - £21,788.94 per annum (pro rata of £25,762.00 FTE).

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Experience in education, support work, or animal care is desirable but not essential—we value transferable skills and a willingness to learn.
• Strong communication, listening, and observation skills
• Ability to engage and motivate others
• Behaviour management skills and empathy
• Adaptability and resilience
• Understanding of safeguarding, confidentiality, and school policies

Desirable (Not Essential)

• Teaching/support qualifications
• GCSEs (Grade C/4+) in English and Maths
• Experience with pastoral care and challenging behaviour
• Knowledge of health & safety in animal care

What Woodpecker Court can offer:

Woodpecker Court offers a unique setting with woodlands, a working farm, workshops, and outdoor classrooms. Our curriculum blends hands‑on experiences with academic learning, fostering a strong community ethos. Staff benefit from a supportive, values‑driven team and access to a confidential 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

We are committed to safeguarding and follow safer recruitment practices in line with KCSIE 2025. Our Child Protection Policy is available on our website www.woodpeckercourt.co.uk. This role requires an enhanced DBS check, two satisfactory references, verification of identity, qualifications, and right to work in the UK. Employment gaps will be explored, and a criminal record self‑declaration is required. Online checks will be conducted for shortlisted candidates.

Become part of a team where relationships, respect, and resilience shape everything we do. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and foster an inclusive environment. To apply, complete and return the application form to Dawn Fisher at [e-mail]. CVs alone will not be accepted. We may close the vacancy early if we receive sufficient qualified applications.