SEND 1:1 Buddy Support - Burgess Hill

Company Description

Make a difference. Support every child. Love your job.

Support a child with SEND in a fun, safe, and inclusive after-school club environment! Join us as a 1:1 SEND Playworker, where you’ll provide tailored support to a child with Autism and ADHD — helping them thrive through engaging, sensory-based activities and a nurturing approach.

At Junior Adventures Group (JAG), we believe in creating spaces where every child feels included, supported, and valued. This is a rewarding opportunity to bring energy, patience, and creativity to a unique 1:1 role that makes a real difference in a child’s life.

Job Description

Location: Burgess Hill Rugby Club

Hours: 2/3 afternoons per week, from 2.45pm - 6.00pm

Pay: £12.71

Start Date: ASAP

Contract: Term time only, 39 weeks per year

What you’ll do day-to-day:

• Provide tailored 1:1 support for a child with additional needs, helping them access and enjoy the club safely and confidently.
• Plan and deliver engaging sensory and play-based activities suited to the child’s individual needs and interests.
• Be a calm, consistent, and reliable presence, building trust and supporting transitions.
• Collaborate with your team to ensure inclusion, safety, and structured fun.
• Support the child with emotional regulation and behaviour using a positive, proactive approach.
• Work closely with families and the school to maintain clear communication and consistency.
• Follow all safeguarding, SEND, and Health & Safety procedures, keeping documentation (e.g. incident forms) up to date.
• Be flexible, caring, and responsive to the child’s evolving needs throughout each session.

What’s in it for you?

• A rewarding, hands-on role where you’ll make a direct difference in a child’s day.
• Access to 24/7 wellbeing support through Health Assured.
• Opportunities to work in our holiday clubs during school breaks.
• Paid training and regular professional development.
• No weekend working.
• Family-friendly hours.
• Be part of a supportive, fun, and passionate team.

Qualifications

So, what does it mean to be a JAG 1:1 SEND Buddy?

It means you’re more than a playworker — you’re a role model, a guide, and a safe space for a child who needs that little bit of extra support. You’ll bring patience, empathy, and creativity every day to help one child truly shine.

This is a complex and deeply rewarding role, ideal for someone with real SEND experience who’s ready to make a difference. If you’re passionate about inclusion, confident managing challenging behaviours, and thrive in a child-led environment, this is the perfect role for you.

Our people make JAG special. Every day, our incredible team creates positive, meaningful moments for children across the UK.

🎥 Learn more about who we are: Watch our video

#JAGL

Additional Information

Safeguarding

This role requires compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

You must provide two references – one from your most recent employer and another from a childcare setting (if applicable).

An Enhanced DBS check will be carried out as part of the hiring process.

For more information, please visit: Keeping Children Safe in Education.