At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with communication needs through targeted interventions and in-class assistance.
- Company: Join a diverse and inclusive academy dedicated to student success.
- Benefits: Enjoy extensive professional development, health benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for progression and leadership in a thriving school community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Passion for education, flexibility, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Specialist Teaching Assistant will support students with communication and interaction needs, including those with ASC and SLCN, by planning and delivering targeted interventions and in-class support. Working under the direction of the SENCO, SALT Therapist, and teaching staff, they will help students access the curriculum, develop communication and social skills, and manage transitions. The role also involves keeping detailed records to track progress, contributing to EHCP reviews, and supporting inclusive practice by sharing strategies and training staff. This position is central to the school's SEND provision.
We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to join our support staff team—someone who is committed to helping students thrive and who enjoys working as part of a collaborative and supportive environment. The successful candidate(s) will be required to undertake an Enhanced and Barred Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and register the DBS on the Update Service.
A genuine passion for supporting young people in their learning and development is essential, along with:
- A commitment to inclusive, student-focused education
- A flexible, proactive, and positive attitude
- The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in the daily life of the school and to make a real difference in the lives of our students. We are a split-site school, with a short walk of approximately 8 minutes between sites, and on-site parking is available.
Alperton Community School is a large, mixed 11-18 academy, with over 350 students in our thriving Sixth Form. Due to our growing popularity and continued success, we have recently expanded our intake to 12 forms in each year group. We are a truly inclusive school, reflecting the wonderfully diverse and vibrant local community we serve. Our students are exceptionally well behaved, hardworking, and ambitious to succeed.
In our most recent Ofsted inspection (March 2026), the school was graded Strong standard and Expected standard, with inspectors noting:
- "Pupils enjoy attending this diverse and inclusive school. They feel a strong sense of belonging, which is evident in the positive relationships they have with staff and with each other."
- "Pupils are kept safe and they know whom to talk to if they have any concerns."
Student progress at both GCSE and A Level has consistently been well above national averages. Outcomes for disadvantaged students closely match those of their peers. In 2023, our Progress 8 score was 0.82 (well above average), and our A Level progress placed us in the top 1% of schools nationally. A high proportion of our students go on to study at Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities. Attendance across the school is excellent, and the percentage of students continuing into education, employment or training is significantly above the national average. Our achievements have been recognised with several recent accolades, including the 2022 Pearson Making a Difference Award. We were also shortlisted for the TES School of the Year and won the TES Maths Team of the Year.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a friendly, highly supportive, and committed team within a culture of success and professional growth. The school offers outstanding support for Early Career Teachers during their induction year. As part of our commitment to staff wellbeing and development, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Extensive CPD and professional growth opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cashback Health Benefits
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Pension Scheme
- Opportunities for progression and leadership
SEND Specialist Teaching Assistant employer: Alperton Community School
Alperton Community School is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where staff can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, extensive CPD opportunities, and a supportive team culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on students' lives. The school's impressive achievements and focus on staff wellbeing, alongside its vibrant community, make it an attractive place for passionate individuals looking to contribute to education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Specialist Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the school, especially those in SEND roles. A friendly chat can give us insider info on what they value in candidates and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by thinking about real-life examples of how you've supported students with communication needs. We want to hear your stories about making a difference—so get those anecdotes ready!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for inclusive education during the interview. Talk about why you believe every student deserves support and how you can contribute to the school's ethos. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨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 take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Specialist Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine passion for supporting young people in your application. Share specific examples of how you've helped students thrive, especially those with communication and interaction needs.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your written application to highlight your experience with SEND and inclusive education. Use the job description as a guide to showcase how your skills align with what we're looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point, so avoid fluff and focus on your relevant experiences and achievements.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity to join our supportive team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alperton Community School
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with communication and interaction challenges, such as ASC and SLCN. Be ready to discuss how you would plan and deliver targeted interventions, as well as your understanding of inclusive practices.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for supporting young people in their learning and development. Share personal experiences or examples that highlight your commitment to inclusive education and how you've positively impacted students in the past.
✨Team Player Vibes
Since you'll be working closely with the SENCO, SALT Therapist, and teaching staff, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in a team to support students and share strategies with colleagues.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Prepare for situational questions that may ask how you'd handle specific challenges in the classroom. Think about how you would manage transitions for students or track progress through detailed records, and be ready to share your thought process.