Company: University of Derby
Location: Derby
Posted: May 13th, 2026
We have one simple promise – to make a positive impact. Through our ground-breaking research, teaching excellence and commitment to sustainable living, we are changing lives for the better.
The University of Derby is a modern university with a modern outlook. Everything we do is driven by delivering excellence and opportunities for our students, our staff and our region.
We have some of the best university facilities in the UK and achieve outstanding results for our teaching and research and have been awarded Gold in the prestigious Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 – making it one of the top universities in the country recognised for its outstanding student experience and student outcomes.
Financially strong and seriously ambitious we offer our employees an inclusive culture that centres itself around staff wellbeing, where you can be confident you will receive all the help and encouragement you need to build a rewarding career with lots of opportunities to enhance your skills.
At the University of Derby, our Institute of Education and Skills is at the heart of shaping the educators, trainers, and leaders of tomorrow. We are dedicated to inspiring, developing, and empowering professionals across education, training, and lifelong learning to transform lives and communities.
We deliver high-quality programmes that span teacher training, post-16 education, early years, educational leadership, and workforce development. By combining academic expertise with real-world application, we prepare our students to make an impact in diverse educational settings.
Our staff are committed to innovation, inclusion, and excellence; engaging learners with cutting-edge research, sector-leading practice, and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. We are proud to work with schools, colleges, training providers, and employers across the region and beyond, ensuring that our teaching is grounded in the needs of society and industry.
Whether through developing the next generation of teachers, enhancing workforce skills, or advancing educational research, the Institute of Education and Skills plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education.
About the University of Derby Buxton
University of Derby Buxton is a vibrant and unique campus set in the heart of the Peak District, combining a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education. Based in the iconic Devonshire Dome, the Buxton campus is home to specialist programmes such as hospitality, culinary arts, events, tourism, and hair and beauty.
The campus is designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences, supported by industry-standard facilities and strong links to local, national, and international employers. With its blend of practical training, academic expertise, and professional partnerships, Buxton offers an environment where students can develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in dynamic and competitive industries.
Set within the stunning natural landscape of Derbyshire, the campus also offers an inspiring backdrop for study and personal growth. At Buxton, students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and thrive, making it an exceptional place to learn and build a successful future.
University of Derby Buxton is rated ‘Good’ by OFSTED in all inspection areas, including teaching, learning & assessment, outcomes for learners, personal development, behaviour & welfare; and has a team of dedicated staff who take pride in supporting learners towards their study and career goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to join our team on our journey to becoming an outstanding provider.
We are actively seeking an Education Support Worker to join the Learning Support/High Needs Department here at University of Derby Buxton. In post you will support a diverse range of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD), thereby fostering an inclusive educational environment.
The role of Education Support Worker is vital in enabling students to engage fully with the varied curriculum we offer, which spans from pre-entry qualifications to higher degree apprenticeships. Our students face differing challenges in their educational journeys, and it is imperative that we cater to their unique learning requirements. You will play an essential role in supporting learners both in and out of class sessions, offering assistance in person as well as online.
In this capacity, you will focus on promoting learners’ educational and personal development, ensuring they can access all the opportunities available within our institution. This role not only supports their academic progression but also contributes significantly to their holistic growth. It is an extraordinary chance to join a growing team of committed individuals who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.
This role is split between multiple Derby sites.
Anticipated interview date: 10th June 2026
The ideal candidate will be a supportive and committed education professional with a solid grounding in English and Maths, demonstrated through GCSEs at grades A–C or equivalent Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy qualifications.
You will have experience working with students who have a wide range of individual learning needs, including those with profound and complex learning difficulties. Experience within a Further Education setting is essential, providing you with an understanding of inclusive, learnerfocused environments. You will be skilled in contributing to individual programme planning, adapting approaches to support each student’s progress and wellbeing. You will also be able to communicate clearly and sensitively, building positive relationships with students and ensuring learning is accessible, encouraging, and tailored to individual needs.
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Angela John at a.john@derby.ac.uk
For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 and is therefore subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Any information you provide will be treated in confidence and only used when considering your suitability for the post.
To enable us to process your DBS check please ensure you are able to supply the documentation listed on the DBS website at interview stage.
The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Please visit our website for more information.
The University of Derby is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our staff, students and children. At the University of Derby, safeguarding is everybody's concern.
Please find our Safeguarding pages including our Safeguarding Policy here.
Closing Date: 25 May 2026
Area: Administrative Support
Salary: £25,802 to £26,582 per annum
(for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £30,569 per annum)