At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with complex needs in their learning and personal development.
- Company: Independent special day school with a focus on inclusivity and support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, fully funded training, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team in a well-resourced school with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Psychology degree and a passion for supporting diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 23100 - 27000 £ per year.
Salary: £22,996 to £25,068 (Actual annual salary, dependent on experience and qualifications)
Category: Education
Position Type: Temporary-to-Permanent / Full-Time, Term Time Only
Location: Royston, Meldreth, Hertfordshire
Hours: 40 hrs per week, Mon - Fri, 8:30am - 4:30pm
We are looking for a recent psychology graduate who has the genuine drive to work with young people demonstrating complex needs and mental health difficulties. We are an independent special day school providing a highly specialist learning environment for students aged 6 to 19 with a range of MLD and SLD needs, including autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and associated difficulties. Many of our students also have complex medical needs and sensory/physical impairments. Students are supported to manage sensory overload, anxiety, low self-esteem, low confidence, and challenges with transitions, often demonstrated through their behaviours.
Our school is well-resourced with exceptional facilities and a dedicated therapeutic team. Due to growth and the expansion of our provision, we are seeking a Teaching Assistant to join our NAS-accredited specialist team, helping create better outcomes and life chances for students in preparation for adult life.
Role Responsibilities:
- Support students' learning, development, and progress across the curriculum in a variety of contexts, including classrooms, local environments, and the community
- Assist young people with diverse needs-including PMLD, complex medical conditions, and autism-to achieve educational and personal goals
- Promote equality, diversity, and the rights of all students to be seen and treated with respect
- Emphasize support and empowerment of students
- Develop understanding of special education issues and school values, demonstrating these in all aspects of the role
- Provide high-quality support in all aspects of teaching and care
- Participate in physical intervention and personal care routines where required
- Flexibly support a variety of duties as needed
We are looking for candidates who:
- Are willing to pursue formal qualifications and training (fully funded by us)
- Are passionate and compassionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs
- Are ambitious and determined to overcome barriers to learning
- Enjoy outdoor and community-based learning
- Can see potential rather than disability
- Are committed to safeguarding values and procedures
- Are proactive, solution-focused, and creative thinkers
- Can work collaboratively as part of a team and independently, maintaining confidentiality
- Have excellent communication skills, particularly for supporting student communication needs
- Understand and deliver effective education and support tailored to student needs
- Are educated to at least Level 2 (or equivalent) in Maths and English
If you would like to be considered for this exciting opportunity, please apply today with an up-to-date CV. Please note, we cannot provide sponsorship.
Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.
Psychology Graduate - SEN Teaching Assistant in Sawston employer: Aspire People
Join our dedicated team at an independent special day school in Royston, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with complex needs. We offer a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development, with fully funded training opportunities to help you grow in your role as a Teaching Assistant. Our well-resourced environment and collaborative team ensure that you can thrive while empowering students to achieve their personal and educational goals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology Graduate - SEN Teaching Assistant in Sawston
✨Get Involved with Psychology Networks
Join local psychology groups or online forums to connect with professionals and get the inside scoop on temporary opportunities. Engaging in these communities can lead to recommendations that might not be advertised anywhere else!
✨Showcase Your Skills with Voluntary Work
Consider taking on voluntary roles in mental health charities or community programmes. This not only builds your experience but also helps you make valuable connections that could lead to temporary positions.
✨Keep Your Applications Customised and Fresh
Given the temporary nature of the roles, be super quick with your applications. Tailor your cover letter to highlight your adaptability and readiness for immediate start dates, and don't hesitate to apply through our website for the best chances!
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs or workshops specifically aimed at psychology students and graduates. These events are perfect for networking and discovering temporary roles directly with employers—plus you can often leave a lasting impression in-person!
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology Graduate - SEN Teaching Assistant in Sawston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Academic Background:In the psychology field, highlighting your academic achievements is crucial. Make sure your CV emphasises your relevant coursework, grades, and any special projects or research you've undertaken in psychology. We want to see how your studies have prepared you for the role at Aspire People.
Tailor Your Personal Statement:Your personal statement is your chance to shine. Focus on your passion for psychology and how this temporary role fits into your career goals. Discuss any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for Psychology Graduate - SEN Teaching Assistant at Aspire People and tie it back to your motivation for applying.
Mention Any Relevant Experience:Whether it’s internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs, relevant experience can set you apart. Highlight any practical applications of psychology you've been involved with, such as counselling, research assistance, or community outreach. It's all about demonstrating your hands-on understanding of the field!
Stay Flexible and Open-Minded:Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your adaptability in your cover letter. Let Aspire People know that you're ready to jump in and learn, and that you can handle quick changes in tasks. We want to see how you'll thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire People
✨Showcase Your Empathy Skills
In psychology, your ability to connect with others is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've demonstrated empathy and understanding in past roles or academic projects. Prepare a couple of real-life examples from your studies or any volunteer work that showcase your strength in this area.
✨Understand the Role’s Context
A temporary position in psychology may involve specific populations or clinical settings. Familiarise yourself with any special considerations or methodologies that apply to the context of the job at Aspire People. This could include particular therapeutic approaches or assessment tools - knowing these can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that require you to think on your feet and apply psychological principles in real-world scenarios. Practise how you would approach a hypothetical situation, perhaps dealing with a distressed client or assessing their needs. This will demonstrate your problem-solving abilities effectively.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Temporary roles often require us to adapt quickly to new environments and challenges. Be sure to emphasise your ability to step into various roles or tasks as needed. Share examples that show how you've thrived in changing situations or learned new skills rapidly.
