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- Tasks: Support pupils' learning and development in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join a caring team at Dibden Park School, part of Outcomes First Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, a £500 welcome bonus, and a 4-day working week.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while enjoying a great work-life balance.
- Qualifications: A caring attitude and confidence working with diverse needs.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team in a brand-new specialist school.
The predicted salary is between 23638 - 23638 £ per year.
At OFG, we work smarter so you can spend more time doing what makes you happy!
Location: Dibden Park School, Southampton SO45 5TD
Salary: £23,638.00 per annum (not pro rata) plus a Welcome Bonus of £500.00
Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday | 8:30am – 4:30pm
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: February 2026
UK applicants only; no sponsorship available
About Outcomes First Group: we believe in better work/life balance and wellbeing. We’re part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, giving 80% of contractual hours for 100% of pay. Many of our schools have introduced the 4DWW or are preparing to roll it out. This is a role where you can contribute to that initiative.
Responsibilities
- Supporting pupils with their learning, both academically and personally
- Preparing learning materials and leading classroom or small-group activities
- Supporting pupils’ emotional, social and physical development
- Assisting teachers to deliver engaging lessons, indoors and outdoors
- Building positive relationships and contributing to a collaborative team culture
What We’re Looking For
- A caring, adaptable and proactive approach
- Confidence working with pupils with a range of needs and abilities
- Patience, creativity and understanding when responding to individual needs
- A strong team player who thrives in a supportive, collaborative environment
About Us: Dibden Park School is a brand-new independent specialist school in Southampton, supporting pupils with SEMH needs, communication difficulties, and associated complex behaviours. The school provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where small classes and personalised support help every pupil thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our curriculum combines formal learning with life skills and enrichment activities to develop confidence, independence, and resilience. We are part of Acorn Education, a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with SEND. As part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative approaches to support children and young people in our care to make meaningful progress. In 2025, Outcomes First Group was 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. All applicants will be subject to safeguarding checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Benefits
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- Your Wellbeing Matters – mental health support and health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista): health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave
- 4-Day Working Week: Work 80% of your hours, 100% pay
Additional information: 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.
Teaching Assistant in Southampton employer: Acorn Education
Contact Detail:
Acorn Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Teaching Assistants at Dibden Park School or similar places. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experiences align with supporting pupils' emotional and academic needs. We want to show them we’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your creativity! Bring examples of engaging activities you’ve led or materials you’ve prepared. This will help us stand out and demonstrate our proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are keen to join us directly!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Teaching Assistant. We want to see how you can support our pupils' learning and development!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in pupils' lives, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and your key points stand out. This helps us get to know you better!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Education
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Dibden Park School and its values. Understanding their commitment to a nurturing environment and the 4-Day Working Week will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll need to be adaptable. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully adjusted your approach to meet the needs of different pupils. This will demonstrate your proactive nature and ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
✨Prepare Engaging Activities
Think about how you can support learning through engaging activities. Bring ideas for classroom or small-group activities that cater to various learning styles. This shows your creativity and readiness to contribute positively to the team.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Highlight your experience as a strong team player. Be ready to discuss how you've built positive relationships in previous roles and how you plan to contribute to a collaborative culture at the school. This is key for supporting both pupils and teachers effectively.