Aberlour Sycamore Services based in Fife are widely recognised in Scotland for providing a range of quality therapeutic residential, education and fostering experiences for some of the most vulnerable young people in the country.

You will be working alongside a child within a school environment as well as being fully involved with education plan creation and relevant meetings. In support of mainstream education, there is the opportunity to access our Nurture Hub where you will use holistic learning that encompasses a range of methods including Project-Based Learning, Duke of Edinburgh and Natural Connections. Our aspirations are that our children will attend a mainstream setting, at a time that is right for them. We know that some children can’t manage in the mainstream environment, so we support their learning focusing on building self-esteem and resilience.

It is essential that you show genuine interest in the young person’s world and demonstrate curiosity about their preferences and needs. We believe that building and continually developing a strong, positive, unconditional relationship with the young person is key to success.

You should be a highly motivated, demonstrate confidence in your approach and have a good understanding of the complex and challenging circumstances that may arise for vulnerable children. You will display patience, empathy and be reflective in your practice. You will demonstrate the ability to think creatively and communicate at a level that encourages the child to embrace learning.

You will demonstrate effective communication skills and be able to link with mainstream school and house staff regarding education plans and goals that will be reflected within the young person’s care plan.

You will have experience of working with young people in an education, community or residential setting and hold, or be willing to gain, a relevant professional qualification at SCQF level 7 or above (e.g. SVQ3 Care plus an HNC).

We encourage long term engagement between children and Education Support Workers. You will be supported by the residential managers, receive regular supervision and have access to learning and training opportunities.

We are currently looking to recruit to 2 posts, one in Kirkcaldy and one in Dunfermline.