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- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a unique outdoor learning environment.
- Company: Join Zen Educate, a platform dedicated to enhancing the teaching experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and hands-on support for your career.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while working in a nurturing, inclusive community.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a passion for helping others and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Work on a beautiful 20-acre farm, engaging in innovative, sensory-based educational practices.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN-school Teaching Assistant to join our unique educational community in Ribble Valley. This full-time role is integral to supporting children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and complex needs within our pioneering SEN environment, set on a 20-acre farm that fosters outdoor learning, animal care, horticulture, and sensory exploration. As a key member of our team, you will work closely with a child requiring 1:1 support, contributing to personalised learning plans that respect each child's individual journey. Our school is committed to creating an inclusive, nurturing space where every learner can thrive through innovative, experiential, and sensory-based approaches aligned with our ethos of respect, growth, and community.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide targeted support to children with complex needs and ASC, ensuring their safety, well-being, and engagement in learning activities.
- Serve as the main key worker for a designated child requiring 1:1 support, developing and implementing personalised learning and behaviour management plans.
- Support non-verbal children by developing and applying communication techniques such as Makaton and PECS, continually learning and adapting methods to facilitate effective interaction.
- Actively participate in modelling learning behaviours through experiential activities, encouraging children to explore, engage, and develop skills in a variety of settings.
- Work collaboratively with teaching staff and other professionals to establish a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes positive behaviour and social development.
- Assist in the organisation and supervision of outdoor activities on the farm, ensuring safety and enriching experiential learning opportunities.
- Contribute to the development and delivery of the school's sensory curriculum, utilising the school's specialised resources and environment to meet individual needs.
- Support the implementation of behaviour management strategies consistent with the school's ethos of fostering respect, resilience, and independence.
- Maintain accurate records of student progress and contribute to staff team meetings, sharing insights to enhance individualised educational plans.
At Zen Educate, we understand the importance of work-life balance for teachers and teaching assistants. Whether you are looking for better pay, more flexibility in your schedule, or hands-on support to help you find the right role, we are here to support you every step of the way. Join our platform today and let us help you take the next step in your career.
Teaching Assistant - SEN employer: Zen Educate
Contact Detail:
Zen Educate Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - SEN
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and the specific needs of children requiring 1:1 support. Understanding these conditions will help you demonstrate your commitment and readiness to engage with the role effectively.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have with sensory-based learning or outdoor education. Since this role involves working on a farm and utilising experiential learning, showcasing relevant skills can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss communication techniques like Makaton and PECS during your interview. Showing that you are willing to learn and adapt these methods will demonstrate your dedication to supporting non-verbal children.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the ethos and values of the school, particularly their focus on respect, growth, and community. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs can make a strong impression during your application process.
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 specific responsibilities and requirements of the Teaching Assistant - SEN position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with supporting children with Autism Spectrum Condition and complex needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children, particularly those with special educational needs. Include specific examples of how you've supported individual learning plans or used communication techniques like Makaton and PECS.
Showcase Your Passion: Express your dedication to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment in your application. Share personal anecdotes or motivations that demonstrate your commitment to supporting children with complex needs and fostering their growth.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a teaching role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zen Educate
✨Show Your Passion for SEN
Make sure to express your genuine interest in working with children who have complex needs and Autism Spectrum Condition. Share any relevant experiences or training that highlight your commitment to supporting these children and fostering an inclusive environment.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role involves supporting non-verbal children, be prepared to discuss your knowledge of communication techniques like Makaton and PECS. You might even want to share examples of how you've successfully used these methods in the past.
✨Highlight Team Collaboration
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with teaching staff and other professionals. Provide examples of how you’ve contributed to a team in previous roles, particularly in creating a supportive and engaging learning environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific situations, such as managing challenging behaviour or facilitating outdoor activities. Think through your responses and consider how your approach aligns with the school's ethos of respect, growth, and community.
