At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 support to help a student become school ready and engage in learning.
- Company: Haywards Farm School, a supportive independent specialist school.
- Benefits: Up to £25,000 per year, health cash plan, life insurance, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to creating an inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's educational journey and personal growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEN support, strong communication skills, and emotional resilience.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 25000 £ per year.
Haywards Farm School is a small, outstanding independent specialist school in West Berkshire, supporting up to 34 pupils. We work with children and young people who have a range of needs, including learning difficulties, autism (ASD), and social, emotional and mental health needs. Many of our pupils have experienced disrupted education and benefit from consistent, relational support to help them re‑engage with learning, routines and school life. Our approach focuses on building trust, developing confidence and creating the conditions for every child to succeed.
Stable Futures, part of Amegreen Children’s Services, is a specialist Alternative Provision offering Equine & Animal Assisted and Outdoor Learning programmes. Through therapeutic engagement with animals and an alternative curriculum including PSHE, Art & Design, Horticulture, Culinary Skills and Careers guidance, pupils build confidence, emotional regulation and engagement with learning. A dedicated forest school site adds hands‑on bushcraft experiences, helping young people reconnect with education and develop the skills for school life.
This is a unique opportunity for an energetic, compassionate Teaching Assistant to provide 1:1 support for a named student at the start of their school journey. Initially based full‑time within the Stable Futures provision, you will help the student develop the social, emotional and behavioural foundations to become “school ready” – supporting them to feel safe, build trust, improve attendance and grow in confidence. Over time, you will support a gradual transition into Haywards Farm School, working closely with the Stable Futures team, school staff and therapists to ensure a consistent, holistic approach aligned with the student’s EHCP outcomes. Patience, consistency and emotional intelligence are essential. This role plays a vital part in helping a young person take their first steps back into education.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide consistent 1:1 support for a named student, helping them develop the social and emotional skills needed to become school ready.
- Support the student to engage in sessions delivered through Stable Futures, including farm‑based and forest provision activities.
- Build a strong, trusting relationship while maintaining clear structure and boundaries.
- Use a calm, therapeutic approach to support behaviour and emotional regulation.
- Share observations and progress updates with staff and, where appropriate, parents.
- Work alongside therapists to implement strategies linked to EHCP objectives.
- Support the student’s gradual transition into Haywards Farm School, working closely with both the school and Stable Futures teams.
You Will Ideally Have
- At least two years’ experience in a similar role (SEN support, behaviour support, alternative provision, or residential childcare).
- Strong communication skills and emotional resilience.
- A consistent, professional and calm approach to supporting vulnerable pupils.
- Flexibility and creativity in adapting support to individual needs.
- A passion for alternative and outdoor learning environments, including farm and forest settings.
- Experience supporting pupils during transitions into education.
- Physical capability for the demands of the role, including potential physical intervention in line with behaviour support plans.
- Willingness to complete training in safe physical intervention techniques (essential).
Working Pattern and Benefits
- Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm, with minimal after‑hours commitments.
- 10 INSET days across the year.
- Therapeutic reflection and twice‑daily briefings to support strong practice.
- Opportunities to collaborate across West Berkshire and partner schools.
Additional Benefits
- Life insurance (death in service) – 4x annual salary.
- Health cash plan (Health Shield) (after probation).
- Comprehensive training and development including CPD and therapeutic practice.
- Free holiday accommodation – company holiday home on the south coast.
- Blue Light Card and local partner discounts.
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential support).
- Enhanced employer pension contributions.
- Electric car scheme and Cycle to Work.
- Employee of the Month and long service awards.
- Discounted driving lessons with local instructor.
Equality and Diversity
Amegreen is committed to creating a workplace where everyone can be their authentic selves in a safe, inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively seek to build diverse teams. If you require any accessibility adjustments to support your application, please contact us.
Safeguarding and GDPR
Amegreen Children’s Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and mandatory safeguarding and GDPR training, including a full employment history review.
Teaching Assistant 1:1 in Stratfield Mortimer employer: Amegreen Childrens Services
Haywards Farm School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where dedicated staff can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with diverse needs. With a strong focus on professional development, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to grow in their roles while enjoying unique benefits such as free holiday accommodation and a health cash plan. Located in the picturesque West Berkshire area, the school fosters collaboration and creativity, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to thrive in their careers.
Contact Details:
Amegreen Childrens Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant 1:1 in Stratfield Mortimer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research Haywards Farm School and Stable Futures to understand their approach. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what they look for in a Teaching Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions! Think about how you'd handle specific situations with students who have emotional or behavioural challenges. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Haywards Farm School and Stable Futures.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant 1:1 in Stratfield Mortimer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children and young people, especially those with special educational needs. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific role of Teaching Assistant 1:1. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with our focus on emotional support and building trust with students.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at Haywards Farm School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Amegreen Childrens Services
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand Haywards Farm School's approach and values. Familiarise yourself with their focus on building trust and supporting students with diverse needs. This will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in similar roles, especially in SEN support or alternative provision. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully supported vulnerable pupils, particularly in developing social and emotional skills.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Since the role requires patience and emotional resilience, think of scenarios where you've had to use these skills. Share how you’ve built trusting relationships with students and managed challenging behaviours in a calm and therapeutic manner.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the school’s approach to education. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you. For example, ask about the support systems in place for staff and how they collaborate with therapists.
