At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and mentor pupils, assist teachers, and supervise during activities.
- Company: Join Polaris Community, dedicated to improving young lives for over 30 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: A-level education or equivalent, with experience in teaching assistance and SEMH settings.
- Other info: Enhanced DBS check required, cost covered by the employer.
Contract: Full-Time Term Time Only
Basic Salary: £19,186.02 - £22,160.57
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme
Location: Becker School Batley, Kirklees
Are you ready to join a supportive and nurturing community that works together to achieve the very best outcomes for its pupils? If so, our new school in Batley could be the perfect place for you to develop your career and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people.
About Us
Located in Batley, our new school offers a safe and supportive environment for pupils with ASC / SEMH needs from 5 to 13 years old. With significant investment and an abundance of new resources, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to shape and mould the school to create a supportive environment that promotes self-discipline, engagement, and inspires learning. Our mission is to provide each pupil with a diverse and appropriate education that encourages aspiration and achievement.
We are part of the Polaris Community and have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years. Within the Polaris Community, we have several SEN Schools across the UK that work together to provide each pupil with a tailored, diverse, and appropriate education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning, and encourages achievement. We’re also incredibly proud that 100% of our inspected services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.
Role responsibilities:
- Dedicated to mentoring and supporting one pupil or else a small group of no more than six pupils
- Supporting the Classroom Teacher during lessons
- Reporting on pupils' progress and concerns, and liaising with other School staff to ensure pupils' needs are met
- Supervision of pupils during non-classroom time including extra-curricular activities and school trips
- Assisting with lesson planning and classroom preparation
- Setting work where appropriate, and marking
- Building positive relationships with your pupil/s and driving interaction and positive learning outcomes
Requirements:
- Have a strong basic education, ideally to A-level, with a minimum of GCSE Grade C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics, and sound IT skills.
- Previous experience in a similar role i.e., Teaching Assistant
- Some previous experience of working with pupils with SEMH within an Educational setting
- Be experienced and confident enough to take additional responsibility in an area of school i.e., Food Hygiene, Forest School, Lunchtimes, School Yoga etc.
- Experience of behaviour management and techniques
- Committed to professional development and willing to learn
- Must be willing to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check prior to commencing work.
What we offer:
- A workplace that values the emotional health and wellbeing of everybody (you included!)
- A commitment to support your development in acquiring new skills through a wide range of professional opportunities
- An opportunity to make a huge contribution to the lives and lifelong learning of vulnerable children who deserve high quality teaching in a safe educational provision
- A friendly and inclusive team who are passionate about improving pupil outcomes
The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS Check, cost of which will be met by Polaris Community. Polaris Community is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates. Polaris Community is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Teaching Assistant employer: Polaris Community
Contact Detail:
Polaris Community 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 pupils with ASC/SEMH. Understanding their challenges and how to support them will show your commitment to the role and help 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 share tips on how to effectively engage with pupils, which could be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any relevant experience you have with behaviour management techniques. Being able to demonstrate your skills in this area will be crucial, as it’s a key part of supporting pupils with SEMH needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Becker School and the Polaris Community. Understanding their values and mission will allow you to tailor your approach and show that you are genuinely interested in contributing to their supportive environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Teaching Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience you have working with children, particularly those with SEMH needs. Provide specific examples of how you've supported pupils in similar roles.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your qualifications, such as GCSEs in English and Mathematics, and any additional skills like behaviour management techniques or experience in extracurricular activities. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that expresses your passion for education and your commitment to supporting vulnerable children. Use this opportunity to convey your enthusiasm for joining the Becker School community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris Community
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with ASC/SEMH needs. Share personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue a role as a Teaching Assistant, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Behaviour Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to manage behaviour effectively. Highlight any relevant training or techniques you are familiar with, as this is crucial for supporting pupils in a classroom setting.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask how you would handle particular situations, such as supporting a pupil during a challenging moment. Practising your responses can help you articulate your thought process and problem-solving skills clearly.
✨Research the School and Its Values
Familiarise yourself with Becker School's mission and values, as well as the Polaris Community. Being able to align your answers with their ethos will demonstrate your commitment to their goals and your understanding of the environment you'll be working in.