Teaching Assistant in Theale

We are looking for energetic and dedicated Teaching Assistants to support our students in achieving growth academically and emotionally. Haywards Farm School is a small, outstanding independent school in West Berkshire, catering to 34 students with a range of special educational needs, including learning difficulties, social and emotional challenges, and autistic spectrum disorders. Many students have a history of non‑attendance and require support to successfully transition into the school environment.

The Teaching Assistant will work specifically with a vulnerable student. The role will ensure the student has consistent one‑to‑one support that will help build trust in a school environment, promote great attendance, and build confidence academically to achieve in core subject areas and areas of vocational interest. The role will involve building a good rapport with students, active listening, and providing assertive challenge and support to achieve results.

The role will involve considerable flexibility, creativity, and therapeutic understanding to meet the needs of the student and those outlined in their EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan). Finally, the role will ensure that the health, safety, and welfare of all pupils at Amegreen Education is always held in the highest regard.

• Deliver 1:1 support designed to ensure that a student's needs are met, providing them with the necessary tools to concentrate and complete tasks assigned to them.
• Support the engagement of the student in assessment and support packages/tools (G L Assessment and Accelerate reader) as part of the school assessment cycle.
• Listen to the student and guide them where appropriate, giving feedback on their progress to parents and school staff.
• Work alongside school therapists to implement the strategies identified as part of assessment and also link all work with each student's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) objectives.
• Help plan and prepare for project work for pupils, drawing on a range of resources from within Future Education, and exploring with the student appropriate community facilities such as libraries, museums, alternative education provision, historical and archaeological sites, and other suitable venues (appropriate to the curriculum subjects timetabled).

At least 2 years' experience in a similar setting or support role, such as residential childcare, SEN, or behavioural support is required. Candidates must bring high energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to engaging with young people. Due to the nature of the role, candidates must be physically able to meet its demands, including the potential need for physical interventions in line with behaviour support plans. A willingness to complete training in safe physical intervention techniques is essential. Strong communication skills, emotional resilience, and a genuine commitment to providing consistent, high‑quality care are also key requirements.

Private use of our company holiday home on the south coast (when not in use for our children), company pension, and all employees are eligible for the Blue Light Card. Long service award and employee of the month discretionary reward are also available.

Successful candidates will be required to go through a thorough safeguarding onboarding process which requires a full employment history review along with a completed enhanced DBS check.

Equality and Diversity: Amegreen is committed to being an organisation that allows people to be their authentic selves in a safe and inclusive environment. We are actively building diverse teams therefore we welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds. We want to create an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute their best work and develop to their full potential. 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. Therefore, all positions are subject to a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and references. Adherence to Safeguarding and GDPR requirements and training on these policies and processes is mandatory for all employees. All employees are expected to understand and promote effective Safeguarding and GDPR practices in all aspects of their employment with Amegreen Children's Services.