SEND Tutor - Early Development & Play-based Learning

Big imaginations. Little steps. Life-changing progress.

Join AP Education and help every child learn, communicate and thrive.

At AP Education, we provide personalised, one-to-one Alternative Provision for children and young people (CYP) who face barriers to education. Our relationship-led approach helps them build confidence, develop skills and make meaningful progress.

We're looking for creative, playful and compassionate SEND Tutors across Hereford and surrounding areas to support children of EYFS age or those working at an EYFS developmental level.

Learning doesn't always happen at a desk. Sometimes, it starts with a favourite toy, a silly song, a game of peekaboo or an adult willing to get down on the floor and see the world through a child's eyes!

If you're imaginative, happy to be a little silly and passionate about celebrating small steps forward, we'd love to hear from you.

What makes AP Education different?Relationships come first.

Feeling safe, understood and connected is often the starting point for learning. You'll have the opportunity to build trust, follow a child's interests and develop a positive relationship at their pace.

Creativity is encouraged.

From sensory activities and messy play to songs, stories, building dens and imaginative games, we encourage tutors to make learning fun and meaningful. We want people who can get involved, think outside the box and connect with children on their level.

Communication matters.

Not every child communicates through speech. You'll help children express their needs, choices, feelings and interests using approaches suited to them, such as visual supports, gestures, signing, objects of reference or AAC.

You're supported.

Your dedicated Education Coordinator will help you understand each child's needs, strengths and goals. We'll arrange planning meetings, complete appropriate risk assessments and support you during the initial start-up. You'll have ongoing guidance, training and access to practical resources. Each learner also has an allocated resource budget for suitable activities and materials.

The roleYou'll deliver face-to-face, one-to-one support tailored to each child's developmental level, interests and communication needs.

Your work may include:

Developing functional communication so children can express choices, needs and feelings.

Using play-based learning to encourage curiosity, interaction and early skills.

Exploring sensory play, music, movement, stories and creative activities.

Supporting attention, turn-taking and shared play where appropriate.

Embedding learning into everyday activities and routines.

Using personalised communication strategies, including visual supports, signing and AAC where appropriate.

Introducing early concepts such as matching, sorting, cause and effect, numbers and early literacy through play.

Recognising sensory needs and celebrating progress.

Recording progress and working with your Education Coordinator towards individual outcomes.

This isn't about expecting every child to sit still or complete worksheets. It's about discovering what motivates them and turning that interest into an opportunity to learn.

Who you'll supportChildren may have needs including:

Autism and communication differences.

Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN).

Global developmental delay or learning difficulties.

Sensory processing differences.

Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Complex SEND.

Some learners will be of EYFS age; others may be older but working at an EYFS developmental level. You'll need to adapt your approach to each child's developmental stage, not just their age.

Who we're looking forYou could be a SEND teacher, Early Years practitioner, specialist tutor, teaching assistant or someone with experience in play-based or developmental support.

Ideally, you'll have:

Experience supporting children with SEND, particularly communication or early developmental needs.

An understanding of play-based, child-led learning.

Creativity and confidence adapting activities to individual needs.

A playful, patient and compassionate approach.

The ability to recognise and celebrate small steps of progress.

Strong communication skills and a collaborative attitude.

Relevant qualifications and experience are welcomed. Above all, we want people who see every child's potential and understand that progress starts with connection.

What we offer

Flexible, term-time working.

Guaranteed weekly pay, even when a learner cannot attend.

A dedicated Education Coordinator and ongoing support.

Free CPD and training opportunities.

An allocated learner resource budget.

Free access to DASA Rewards, including 24/7 GP access, fuel offers including BP Fuel, retail discounts and cashback, subject to scheme terms.

Opportunities for further placements as referrals arise.

Ready to make a difference?We believe no child should be left behind because they learn, communicate or experience the world differently.

If you're creative, compassionate and ready to embrace the wonderful unpredictability of early developmental learning, we'd love to hear from you!

Call (phone number removed) and ask for Laura Dowson, or apply to join AP Education as a SEND Tutor.

Know someone who'd be a great fit? Our tutor referral scheme offers a £250 Prezzee voucher for referring a tutor who joins us, subject to terms and conditions.

AP Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Successful applicants must complete an Enhanced DBS check and relevant safer recruitment processes. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals