Youth Support Worker - Animal Antiks - North Marston

We are looking for a compassionate, proactive and resilient Youth Worker to join our Alternative Provision team. You will support young people with SEND to develop confidence, independence and practical skills through engaging, hands-on learning in our unique animal-assisted and land-based environment.

About Animal Antiks Group
Animal Antiks Group is a Buckinghamshire-based organisation providing education, vocational training, and therapeutic support for young people with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). We operate across three connected divisions:
·        Animal Antiks: our farm-based vocational training hub
·        Different Steps CIC: our accredited learning provider (ASDAN and City & Guilds qualifications)
·        Animal Antiks Charity: therapeutic outdoor support for young people who need it most

We're passionate about making a real difference for young people who've often struggled in traditional educational settings, and that means we need a fantastic team behind the scenes to make everything tick. That's where you come in!

Our mission is simple: Open Hearts, Unlock Minds and Inspire People.

The Role
Contract Type & Salary

• Salary: £28,000 – £30,000 pro rata
• Full time and Term-time only positions available
• Reports to – Head of Operations

We are looking for a compassionate, proactive and resilient Youth Worker to join our Alternative Provision team. You will support young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to develop confidence, independence and practical skills through engaging, hands-on learning within our unique animal-assisted and land-based environment.

Working alongside Tutors and Instructors, you will support young people with SEND, including autism, ADHD, SEMH and trauma-related needs, to access learning, achieve accredited qualifications and prepare for adulthood. Using a person-centred and trauma-informed approach, you will help learners overcome barriers, build resilience and reach their individual potential.
Key Responsibilities

Supporting Young People

• Build positive and trusting relationships with learners.
• Provide one-to-one and small group support during learning activities.
• Support learners to achieve the outcomes within their EHCPs.
• Encourage confidence, independence and positive decision-making.
• Promote positive behaviour using restorative and trauma-informed approaches.
• Support learners during transitions and throughout the school day.

Learning and Vocational Support

• Assist Tutors and Instructors during vocational, animal care and functional skills sessions.
• Encourage learners to complete activities and work towards accredited qualifications.
• Reinforce employability, communication and life skills through practical learning.
• Help learners identify their strengths and aspirations.

Animal Care and Practical Learning

• Support learners during animal care and land-based activities.
• Promote safe working practices around animals, tools and equipment.
• Assist in preparing learning areas and maintaining a safe, clean environment.
• Encourage respect for animals, equipment and the outdoor environment.

Safeguarding and Wellbeing

• Safeguard and promote the welfare of all young people.
• Support learners experiencing emotional distress using agreed strategies.
• Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Report safeguarding concerns in line with organisational procedures.

Working Together

• Work collaboratively with colleagues, families and external professionals.
• Maintain accurate learner records.
• Attend meetings, training and supervision.
• Contribute positively to the wider team and undertake other reasonable duties.

Person Specification
Essential

• Experience working with young people with SEND, SEMH, autism, ADHD or trauma-related needs.
• Experience in education, youth work, care, mentoring or a similar environment.
• Understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Calm, patient and resilient approach.
• Ability to motivate and support young people to achieve their potential.

Desirable

• Experience within Alternative Provision.
• Knowledge of EHCPs.
• Experience of animal care, farming, horticulture or outdoor learning.
• Knowledge of vocational education or functional skills.
• Training in trauma-informed practice, autism awareness or positive behaviour support.

Qualifications
Essential

• GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Maths, or willingness to work towards.
• Relevant qualification or equivalent experience in Youth Work, Education, Childcare, Health & Social Care or SEND.

Desirable

• Level 2 or 3 qualification in a relevant subject.
• First Aid and Safeguarding training.
• Team Teach or Positive Behaviour Support training.

Additional Requirements

• Enhanced DBS check.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.
• Full UK driving licence desirable.

Why Join Animal Antiks?
At Animal Antiks, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive. Through animal-assisted learning, vocational education and personalised support, we help learners develop confidence, practical skills and independence while preparing for successful futures. If you are passionate about making a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Accessibility and Reasonable Adjustments
Animal Antiks is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you have a disability or long-term health condition and require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. We will work with you to ensure you can fully participate in the selection process.