Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs and enhance their learning experience.
- Company: Join Meadstead Primary Academy, a vibrant school dedicated to nurturing every child's potential.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive training, generous benefits, and lifestyle perks like gym discounts and travel deals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification preferred but not essential; enthusiasm for working with children is key.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; commitment to safeguarding and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 20000 £ per year.
Salary: NJC 3 £17,796 (Actual Salary) £24,027 (FTE) + well-being cash plan + pension scheme (LGPS) + additional Lift Schools benefits
Hours: 32.5 per week, 38 weeks per year
Contract: Permanent
Start date: May 2025 or as soon as feasible
Are you passionate about education and looking for a fulfilling career? We're looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to join our community focused and supportive team at Meadstead Primary Academy, in Barnsley, on a permanent basis.
You're someone who'll be able to:
- Improve the learning and attainment of students while also promoting their independence, self-esteem and social inclusion.
- Supervise classroom activities and play.
- Support and lead on SEN interventions and 1:1 support.
- Support students so that they can access the curriculum, participate in learning and experience a sense of achievement.
- Be a compassionate, warm and friendly face to children and parents.
You're someone who has:
- Motivation and enthusiasm to work with Children.
- Level 3 qualification in Teaching Assisting or equivalent is desired but not essential.
- Understanding of children's SEN learning needs.
- Phonic understanding.
- The skills to help children to develop independent learning skills.
- Ability to deliver individual and small group targeted interventions.
- An understanding of Early Years and willingness to work with children in the Early Years setting when required.
This is an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of young people. We value the skills and dedication of our teaching assistants. To support the best outcomes for our students, we require a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent). If you don't yet hold this qualification, don't worry! We'll invest in your development by enrolling you in our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Programme, helping you gain the behaviours, skills and experience you need to thrive in the role.
About the school:
Here at Meadstead Primary Academy we have a special and unique learning community that is proud to serve the village of Royston, and surrounding areas. Our staff commute not just from Barnsley, but from Wakefield, Doncaster, Sheffield and beyond. We are a vibrant, welcoming school dedicated to nurturing every child's potential through a supportive and engaging learning environment. Our passionate staff and diverse curriculum encourage curiosity, creativity, and resilience, ensuring that each child grows academically, socially, and emotionally. At Meadstead, we are committed to building strong foundations and fostering a lifelong love of learning within our inclusive school community.
Who is Lift Schools?
We're a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 57 schools. As with our students, we want our team to be empowered to do their best work, supported by the best leadership they've ever had. We acknowledge and appreciate the exceptional efforts of everyone here in making this an incredible organisation.
We offer you:
- Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career.
- Generous benefits: From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered.
- Lifestyle perks: Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and even electric vehicle incentives.
Closing date: 20th April 2025
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response. All candidates are advised to refer to the job description and person specification before making an application.
Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered. We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
Teaching Assistant SEN employer: Meadstead Primary Academy
Contact Detail:
Meadstead Primary Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant SEN
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific SEN needs of children. Understanding various learning difficulties and how to support them will not only help you in the role but also impress the hiring team at Meadstead Primary Academy.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the school community before applying. Attend open days or community events if possible, as this shows your commitment and enthusiasm for the role and helps you understand the school's culture better.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any relevant experience you have working with children, especially those with SEN. Whether it's through volunteering, tutoring, or personal experiences, showcasing your passion and skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to promoting independence and self-esteem in students during the interview. Having specific examples ready will demonstrate your understanding of the role and your ability to make a positive impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant SEN
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the SEN Teaching Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what they are looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly those with special educational needs. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to support learning and promote independence.
Show Your Passion: Express your enthusiasm for education and working with children in your application. Share personal anecdotes or motivations that illustrate why you are dedicated to making a positive impact in students' lives.
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, which is crucial in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Meadstead Primary Academy
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and your commitment to their learning and development. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your dedication to education, especially in supporting students with special educational needs.
✨Demonstrate Understanding of SEN Needs
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of various special educational needs and how you can support students effectively. Highlight any relevant experience or training you have, and be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully helped children overcome challenges in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle classroom situations. Think about potential challenges you might face as a Teaching Assistant and how you would approach them, particularly in terms of promoting independence and social inclusion among students.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the school’s approach to SEN, the team you'll be working with, and the professional development opportunities available. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
