At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEND needs and lead a team of teaching assistants.
- Company: Join The Dean Trust at Ashton on Mersey School, a community-focused educational institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and access to modern facilities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and partnerships with top organisations.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while shaping school culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting SEND pupils and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Dean Trust is seeking to appoint a talented and hard-working Teaching Assistant Level 4 to join our dedicated team at Ashton on Mersey School. The core purpose of the role will be to provide competent management of our pupils with SEND needs and other vulnerable children within a specific Year group within the school, along with the management of other teaching assistants. This will include allocation and monitoring of work, appraisal and training.
The job will also entail planning, preparing and delivering learning activities for individuals/groups or for whole classes and monitoring pupils and assessing, recording and reporting on pupils’ achievement, progress and development.
Ashton on Mersey School is in the central hub of The Dean Trust and serves the community of Sale and beyond. As part of our team you can contribute, collaborate and lead on many established areas that shape our school culture. Our school vision has been shaped by every member of our school community.
The school has:
- An ambitious co-produced curriculum at Key Stages 3 and 4 leading to a full A-Level and vocational qualification offer in Key Stage 5 at our thriving sixth form.
- A reputation for securing year-on-year examination results that are consistently strong.
- Modern, high-quality facilities with the latest technology solutions accessible to all staff and pupils and with sports facilities that rank alongside some of the best in the country.
- An exceptional character and personal development programme which involves a renowned provision of extra-curricular activity with specialism in Sport and Performing Arts.
- A dedicated group of teaching and support staff that lead excellent pastoral care in an inclusive school which maintains a traditional expectation with regards to standards of behaviour.
- Direct access to the Believe Learning Institute (The Dean Trust’s centre for professional learning, including leadership development), Turing NW Maths Hub and SCITT; all based on site.
- World-class opportunities and partnerships forged with national and international partners, including Manchester United Football Club, with whom we have provided an educational package for youth players for over 25 years, and Sale Sharks, with Ashton on Mersey students participating in the ACE league.
This exciting opportunity will suit a candidate who demonstrates the following qualities, knowledge and skills:
- Ability to assess the needs of pupils and use detailed knowledge and specialist skills to support pupils’ learning.
- Manage other teaching assistants.
- Represent teaching assistants at teaching staff/management/other appropriate meetings.
- Be aware of and support difference and ensure all pupils have equal access to opportunities to learn and develop.
- Advise on appropriate deployment and use of specialist aid/resources/equipment.
- Establish productive working relationships with pupils, parents and other key stakeholders while acting as a role model and setting high expectations.
- Develop and implement IEPs.
- Promote the inclusion and acceptance of all pupils within the classroom.
- Provide feedback to pupils, parents and other stakeholders in relation to progress and achievement.
To apply for this vacancy please visit our recruitment page careers.thedeantrust.co.uk. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Maxine Mills HR Assistant on 0161 973 1179 Option 6 or email MaxineMills@aom.trafford.sch.uk.
Application closing date: 08:00 Monday 1st June 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 8th June 2026
We are an Equal Opportunities employer committed to ensuring inclusion, diversity and equality of opportunity. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates including those from underrepresented groups, and/or with protected characteristics. The Dean Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to pre-employment safeguarding checks, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check.
Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND Support & TA Lead) employer: Ashton on Mersey School
The Dean Trust is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment at Ashton on Mersey School, where dedicated staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with SEND needs. With access to modern facilities, professional development opportunities through the Believe Learning Institute, and partnerships with renowned organisations like Manchester United, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to a vibrant school culture that prioritises excellence and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND Support & TA Lead)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Ashton on Mersey School through LinkedIn or social media. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the school culture and what they really value in a Teaching Assistant.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to SEND support and team management. We can even role-play with a friend to boost our confidence and refine our answers!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for inclusive education during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've supported diverse learners in the past. This will help us stand out as a candidate who truly cares about every pupil's success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re genuinely interested in being part of The Dean Trust community.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND Support & TA Lead)
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 Senior Teaching Assistant. We want to see how you can specifically support pupils with SEND needs and lead other teaching assistants.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experience! Whether it’s managing a team or working directly with vulnerable children, we want to know how you’ve made a difference in similar roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We appreciate clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our recruitment page at careers.thedeantrust.co.uk. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashton on Mersey School
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support pupils with diverse needs. This shows that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Teaching Assistant, you'll be managing other TAs. Prepare examples of how you've led teams or supported colleagues in the past. Highlight any training or mentoring you've provided, as this will demonstrate your capability to take charge and foster a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with the School's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Ashton on Mersey School’s vision and values. During the interview, relate your personal teaching philosophy to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with SEND. Think through potential scenarios and your responses ahead of time. This will help you articulate your thought process clearly and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
