Bale’s Farm is an Outdoor Education provider working with young people with a range of SEN supporting them through their educational journey and into work.
We are looking for a Job Coach with a background in Animal Care to support our new learners through their apprenticeships. The role of Job Coach is to enable a person to carry out a work place role which may not be possible for them to do without the additional support. Under the government funded scheme of Supported Employment. This role is unique and will not only involve elements of animal care but also support work and teaching assistant principles.

WHAT IS SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT?

1. People with disabilities and/or disadvantages can make a positive contribution in the workplace.

2. People with disabilities / disadvantage should have access to a real job where

• wages are paid at the going rate for the job,
• the employee enjoys the same terms and conditions as all other employees;
• the job helps the person to meet their life goals and aspirations;
• the role is valued by managers and colleagues;
• the job has similar hours and times at work as other employees, with safe working conditions.

1. People are encouraged to exercise choice and control in achieving their career aspirations. Support is individualised and all options assume successful employability.
2. There is genuine partnership between the person, their family carers, employers, community supports and the provider of supported employment.
3. People are supported to be full and active members of their workforces and wider communities, both socially and economically.
4. Support services recognise the importance of the employer as a customer of supported employment in their own right with requirements that need to be satisfied.
5. Supported employment should encourage the career development of individuals by promoting training opportunities and seeking options for increased responsibility.

JOB OVERVIEW ANIMAL CARE

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Animal Care Assistant to join our team. This role is vital in providing high-quality care for animals in our facility, ensuring their well-being and comfort. The ideal candidate will possess a genuine love for animals, along with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while delivering excellent customer service.

REQUIREMENTS

• Previous experience is highly desirable.
• Strong background in animal care or related fields.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting and physically demanding tasks.
• A genuine passion for animal welfare and commitment to providing exceptional care.

DUTIES

• Provide daily care for animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercising.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in animal enclosures and surrounding areas.
• Monitor animal behaviour and health, reporting any concerns to the veterinary team.
• Perform heavy lifting tasks associated with moving animals or equipment as required.

Key roles and responsibilities

• Supporting students with learning: This includes helping students understand instructions, adapting learning materials, providing one-on-one or small group instruction, and reinforcing concepts.
• Providing emotional and behavioural support: SEN TAs help students develop social skills, manage their emotions, and build confidence.
• Collaborating with teachers and other professionals: SEN TAs work closely with teachers, parents, and other specialists (e.g., speech and language therapists) to ensure students receive appropriate support.
• Creating a safe and inclusive learning environment: This includes adapting the learning environment, promoting positive behaviour, and ensuring all students feel included and valued.
• Adapting and modifying learning materials: SEN TAs help make learning materials accessible and engaging for students with diverse needs.
• Monitoring and reporting: They track student progress and communicate with teachers about any concerns or successes.
• Attending meetings and training: SEN TAs participate in staff meetings and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Managing resources and stock: They help organise and maintain learning materials and equipment.
• Providing first aid and administering medication:In some cases, SEN TAs may be trained to provide basic first aid or administer medication according to school policy.
• Supporting on school trips: We regularly take school trip which are often topic based and support the learning, we also offer swimming lessons and community engagement for our young people that struggle to access things outside of the home