At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH needs, fostering positive relationships and emotional regulation.
- Company: Horizons Academy, a brand-new special school focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, lifestyle discounts, and health cash plan.
- Other info: Join a diverse team in a state-of-the-art facility with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Relevant childcare qualification and experience with additional needs required.
The predicted salary is between 22903 - 26824 € per year.
Salary Grade 4 £26,824. Actual salary term time only £22,903.57. Contractual hours 37. Basis Full Time. Job type Support Staff - Educational. Location Horizons Academy, Ravensdale Road, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG18 2DP.
We are looking for compassionate, positive, and resilient individuals to join our dedicated, pupil‑centred team. This highly rewarding role supports pupils in overcoming barriers to learning, building trusting relationships, and thriving within our school community. Working under the guidance of the Assistant Principal and Behaviour Lead, you will deliver personalised support to pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and other related learning difficulties.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing behaviour
- Promoting emotional regulation
- Fostering positive relationships
- Working with teachers and support staff to create a safe, nurturing environment
Your experience should include a relevant childcare qualification (NNEB, NVQ3 or equivalent) and experience supporting pupils with additional needs and challenging behaviour. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, collaboration across teams, commitment to safeguarding, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential.
Why join Horizons Academy? Horizons Academy is a brand‑new, state‑of‑the‑art special school opened in January 2026, serving Key Stages 2 to 5 with social, emotional, and mental health needs and autism spectrum conditions. The school accommodates 160 pupils aged 7 to 19 with approximate class sizes of 8 students, providing an inclusive, meaningful education.
Our employee benefits include:
- Enrollment into the Local Government Pension Scheme with an employer contribution of at least 21.8%
- Salary sacrifice schemes – car scheme, cycle to work, home and electronics
- Lifestyle savings - discounts on gym memberships, holidays, days out, shopping, restaurants, etc.
- Health cash plan (personal or family) – monthly contributions for private treatments such as dental, optical and therapies
- Childcare – breakfast and after‑school provision
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. Both male and female role models are essential to the development and aspirations of our students. As men are currently underrepresented within this team, we particularly welcome applications from male candidates.
Closing date Sunday 7th June 2026. Interview date To be confirmed. For further information or to enquire, please contact Louise Maggio at lmaggio@yeomanpark-ac.org.uk.
Teaching Assistant employer: Astrea Academy Trust
Horizons Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where dedicated individuals can make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to employee well-being, including generous pension contributions and lifestyle savings, we foster professional growth and collaboration among our staff. Join us in shaping the future of education in Mansfield, where your compassion and resilience will be valued and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Horizons Academy and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions. Think about how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with SEMH needs. Practising your responses will 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 our team at Horizons Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. Use keywords from the job description, like 'compassionate' and 'resilient', to show we’re on the same page.
Showcase Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications or experiences you have, especially those related to supporting pupils with SEMH needs. We want to see how you can contribute to our dedicated team!
Be Yourself:Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for genuine individuals who can build trusting relationships with our pupils. Share your passion for education and how you connect with students.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Astrea Academy Trust
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant at Horizons Academy. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with SEMH and autism spectrum conditions, as well as the importance of building trusting relationships. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your relevant childcare qualifications and any experience you have supporting pupils with additional needs. Prepare specific examples of how you've managed behaviour or promoted emotional regulation in past roles. This will demonstrate your capability and commitment to creating a nurturing environment for students.
✨Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills
Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential for this role. Think of instances where you've worked effectively within a team or built positive relationships with students. Be prepared to share these experiences during the interview to illustrate your ability to connect with both pupils and colleagues.
✨Stay Calm and Collected
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to convey your ability to remain calm under pressure. During the interview, take a moment to breathe and collect your thoughts before answering questions. This will not only help you stay composed but also reflect the resilience and positivity that Horizons Academy values in its staff.
