At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers in creating an engaging learning environment for students with SEMH needs.
- Company: Medway Green School is a nurturing special needs provision under Acorn Education, focused on student growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, life assurance, pension options, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: Passion for education, teamwork skills, and a willingness to learn; experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Join a certified 'Great Place to Work' and help shape the future of young people.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 21200 £ per year.
At OFG, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing what makes you happy!
Job title: Teaching Assistant
Location: Medway Green School, Wouldham, Rochester, ME1 3TS
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30am – 4:00pm
Salary: £22,160.62 per annum (not pro rata)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: March 2026
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay*.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW, and others will soon join in. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG!
About the Role
As a Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting pupils to achieve their potential and enjoy learning. This is more than a support role — it’s your chance to make a real, lasting difference in the lives of young people with SEMH or additional needs.
You will:
- Support pupils individually and in groups, developing literacy, numeracy, communication, and social skills
- Assist in planning and delivering engaging lessons and activities
- Implement positive behaviour strategies and maintain a calm, encouraging classroom environment
- Prepare classroom resources and support trips and enrichment activities
- Maintain accurate records of pupil progress and behaviour
- Work closely with teachers, therapy staff, and pastoral teams
- Supervise pupils during breaks and lunchtimes
About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Passionate about helping children and young people thrive
- Able to work collaboratively as part of a team
- Patient, resilient, and proactive
- Experienced in an educational or residential setting (desirable but not essential)
- Willing to learn and develop within the role
- Flexible and confident to support offsite activities; a full UK driving licence is essential
About Us
Medway Green School is a specialist school in Wouldham, Kent, supporting students with SEMH needs and autism whose mainstream placements have broken down. The school provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment with small classes and personalised support tailored to each pupil’s needs. Our creative curriculum combines academic, vocational, and wellbeing-focused learning, helping students build confidence, independence, resilience, and social skills. Pupils benefit from a therapeutic approach that supports emotional and personal development alongside education. Working closely with families, we foster strong relationships and a sense of community. Medway Green empowers every student to thrive, achieve their potential, and prepare for life beyond school.
Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.
We are really proud to say that in 2025, Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
- Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
- 4-Day Working Week: Work 80% of your hours, get 100% pay*
*Subject to successful probation. Not a contractual benefit.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
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Teaching Assistant employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with SEMH. Understanding their challenges and how to support them will show your commitment to the role and make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Teaching Assistants in similar settings. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even share tips on how to impress during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Medway Green School and its approach to education. Being knowledgeable about the school's values and methods will demonstrate your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their ethos.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your teamwork, patience, and resilience. These qualities are essential for a Teaching Assistant, and having concrete examples ready will help you articulate your fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role of a Teaching Assistant. Emphasise any previous work with students, especially those with SEMH or additional needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your commitment to supporting students. Mention specific examples of how you've helped students in the past and how you can contribute to the inclusive environment at Medway Green School.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills such as teamwork, patience, and resilience. These are crucial for a Teaching Assistant role, especially when working with students who have special educational needs.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with students, especially those with SEMH or additional needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue a role as a Teaching Assistant.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since collaboration is key in this role, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked as part of a team in the past. Highlight your ability to support teachers and fellow staff members effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and patience. Think about potential classroom scenarios you might face and how you would handle them, particularly with students who have SEMH needs.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the school's approach to supporting students and the team dynamics. This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to understanding the role better.