Youth/Adult Learning Mentor
Able Hands Together (AHT)
About Able Hands Together
Able Hands Together is a Community Interest Company providing therapeutic farming and alternative education services for young people requiring Education Otherwise Than At School (EOTAS) packages or funded through their school. A social care provision for adults with learning disabilities who are commissioned through Wiltshire County Council.
Based at Little Wishford Farm, Stoford, we create an inclusive, trauma-informed environment where education meets compassion in Wiltshire's beautiful countryside.
Our Vision: "We SUPPORT people, to ensure everyone achieves their full potential to be themselves, building trust and connection along the way."
Our Values:
* Neurodiversity Acceptance: Celebrating individual differences and neurodivergent experience.
* Trauma-Informed Support: Understanding and responding to trauma with compassion, connection and autonomy.
* Inclusion and Belonging: Creating spaces where everyone feels valued
* Holistic Well-being: Supporting emotional, physical, and social development
* Community Connection: Building meaningful relationships and support networks
Role Overview
We are seeking dedicated Youth/Adult Learning Mentors to join our caring team, working across both our Education and Social Care services. This role combines supporting young people in our alternative learning community and adults with learning disabilities in our Co-Farmer program. You'll be part of creating a revolutionary farm-based environment where multi-generational support is delivered and every individual can feel safe, supported, and celebrated for who they are.
Salary: Up to £14.00 per hour (Flexible working hours)
Key Responsibilities
Educational & Social Care Support
* Support delivery of personalised, child-led learning experiences for young people aged 8-17
* Assist with individualised learning plans based on each person's unique interests, sensory preferences, and learning style
* Help facilitate therapeutic interventions embedded throughout the daily learning experience
* To help coordinate all aspects of organisation and administration within the education department. Support in the coordinate EHCP/EHCNA production, implementation, referrals, and annual reviews, PLP writing and parental liaison, help support and organise and deliver interventions within the department and assist with broader SEND administration and documentation as required.
* Work alongside education team to implement trauma-informed responses
* Support AQA qualifications delivery and administration, Including Level 1 and Level 2 English and Maths
* Assist with creative arts integration, including photography projects and visual storytelling
* Support development of literacy, numeracy and communication skills within practical situations
* Maintain education progress while prioritising healing and emotional growth
* Support adults with learning disabilities in meaningful farm-based activities
* Assist Co-Farmers with animal care including ducks, chickens, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, alpacas, and sheep
* Support gardening activities and creative projects based on individual interests and strengths
* Implement person-centred approaches that celebrate individual differences
* Facilitate smooth transitions from children's to adult services
* Match activities to what works for each individual's needs and enjoyment preferences
Therapeutic Environment
* Create and maintain a safe, pressure-free environment for all participants
* Implement neurodivergent -friendly approaches that celebrate individuality
* Support individuals at their own pace, whether they need routine or variety
* Undertake emotional check-ins, mindfulness techniques, and anxiety management strategies
* Facilitate meaningful connections and community building
* Recognise and respond to different social battery levels and emotional regulation needs
* Work collaboratively with families, care support teams, and health/social care professionals
* To undergo training that is identified.
Farm-Based Activities
* Support daily animal care routines and feeding schedules across our 4-acre farm
* Assist with horticultural activities and garden maintenance
* Help maintain farm environment designed around participant needs
* Ensure health and safety protocols are followed during all outdoor activities
* Support seasonal variations in farm work and weather-dependent schedules
* Provide support during external visits and work experience placements
Administrative and Team Collaboration
* Maintain accurate records and contribute to individualised planning and safeguarding procedures
* Keep required written and computer records for participant progress, emotional regulation and support
* Participate in team meetings, observations, and professional development
* Support the booking and visit process for new participants
* Assist with taster sessions and initial assessments
* Work effectively within our supportive team culture where we "look out for each other"
* Have a working knowledge of GDPR and continentality
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
* Relevant qualifications in social care and/or education (Level 3 or equivalent, or willingness to undertake)
* Experience working with young people and/or adults with learning disabilities
* Understanding of trauma-informed care and therapeutic approaches
* Commitment to neurodiversity acceptance and person-centered support
* Strong communication skills and ability to build trust and connection
* Physical ability to engage in outdoor farm activities in all weather conditions
* Flexibility to work across different age groups and support needs
* Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to obtain)
* Minimum GCSE Maths & English Grade C/4 and above or equivalent
* Experience in alternative education or EOTAS settings or educational settings
* A full driving licence and a willingness to use own vehicle
* Desirable Requirements
* Knowledge of ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) approaches
* Understanding of transition processes from children to adult services
* Experience with farm animals and agricultural activities
* Creative arts or photography skills
* First aid qualification
* Experience with individualised learning plans or care planning
* Experience working with adults and children who become unregulated and follow any plans and guidance that supports the Indvidual.
Personal Qualities
* Genuine belief that everyone has something to bring to the community
* Patient, empathetic approach that celebrates individual differences
* Resilient and adaptable to varying daily needs and weather conditions
* Creative problem-solver who can match activities to individual preferences
* Team player committed to our supportive, caring culture
* Passion for helping people discover their strengths and build confidence
* A solid commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare of all participants
* Confident IT use
What We Offer
* Opportunity to work in a unique, revolutionary farm-based setting
* Supportive team environment with excellent retention rates (95%)
* Comprehensive training and ongoing professional development
* Beautiful rural working environment on our 4-acre farm
* Chance to make a real difference in people's lives across different age groups
* Collaborative culture where staff support each other
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* Pension scheme and standard employment benefits
* Free parking
Working Conditions
* Farm-based outdoor environment with indoor facilities available
* Weather-dependent activities requiring appropriate clothing
* Small group working with personalized attention ratios
* Flexible daily schedules based on individual participant needs
* Seasonal variation in activities and routines
* Daily use of computers and educational management systems
Safeguarding
Able Hands Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. All staff are expected to share this commitment and report any concerns in accordance with agreed procedures. This role involves regulated activity and requires Enhanced DBS clearance and two references.
Application Process
We're looking for someone who shares our vision and values. To apply, please send your CV and covering letter explaining why you're passionate about supporting both young people and adults in a farm-based therapeutic environment. Should this stage be successful we will email you and application form.
Contact Information:
* Queries:
* Phone: Laura Tween:
* Website:
* Address: Little Wishford Farm, Warminster Rd, Stoford SP2 0PS
Able Hands Together is an Equal Opportunities employer committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £13.00-£14.00 per hour
Expected hours: 12 – 24 per week
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Free parking
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person