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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students academically and emotionally, building relationships and confidence.
- Company: Beacon AP, a supportive Alternative Provision in Exeter focused on young people's needs.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, meaningful work, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Join a close-knit team where every day is unique and rewarding.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people who need support.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people and a patient, adaptable attitude.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
About Beacon AP
Beacon is a small but growing Alternative Provision in Exeter, Devon, supporting young people with SEN and social, emotional and mental health needs. Many of our students have found mainstream settings difficult, so our focus is on rebuilding confidence, relationships, and a sense of safety around learning. We’re a close-knit team who value connection, flexibility, and genuinely meeting each young person where they’re at. No two days look the same here, and that’s exactly how we like it.
The Role
We’re looking for someone who can step into a varied, hands-on role supporting our students both academically (with English and Maths up to GCSE level) and emotionally. This isn’t just a classroom role; you’ll be building relationships, supporting regulation, celebrating small wins, and helping young people re-engage with learning in a way that works for them. Hours will start at 15h/wk term time only, but there is real potential for these to increase as our provision continues to grow.
What you’ll be doing:
- Supporting students 1:1 and in small groups
- Helping with English, Maths, and topic-based learning (at a level appropriate to each student)
- Providing calm, consistent emotional support throughout the day
- Getting involved in creative, practical, and outdoor activities
- Helping students manage challenges and build confidence
- Being a steady, positive presence for young people who may find school difficult
Who we’re looking for:
You don’t need to be a teacher, but you do need to be someone who 'gets it'. Someone who is:
- Naturally patient, calm, and able to build trust
- Comfortable supporting young people with SEN and SEMH needs
- Flexible and happy to adapt as the day changes
- Warm, approachable, and able to bring a bit of humour when it’s needed
- Keen to be part of a small team where everyone mucks in
Experience working with young people is important (education, youth work, care, etc.), but attitude and approach matter just as much as background.
Why join us?
- You’ll be part of a genuinely supportive, down-to-earth team
- The role is varied, meaningful, and never boring
- You’ll have the chance to really make a difference to young people who need it most
- There’s room to grow with us as Beacon AP develops
Safeguarding
We take safeguarding seriously. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks and appropriate references.
To apply
Send us your CV and a short note about yourself, what draws you to this kind of work and why you think you’d be a good fit for Beacon AP.
Teaching Assistant (Alternative Provision – SEN/SEMH) in Devon employer: Beacon Alternative School CIC
Contact Detail:
Beacon Alternative School CIC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (Alternative Provision – SEN/SEMH) in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, try to connect with current staff or even students if possible. This will give you insights into the culture at Beacon AP and help you tailor your approach during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for supporting young people! During your interview, share specific examples of how you've helped others in the past. Whether it’s through education, youth work, or just being a supportive friend, let us see your genuine commitment.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to adapt! Since no two days are the same at Beacon AP, demonstrate your flexibility and willingness to change plans on the fly. Share stories where you’ve successfully navigated unexpected challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your sense of humour! We value a warm and approachable attitude, so sprinkle in some light-hearted anecdotes that show how you can bring positivity to challenging situations.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (Alternative Provision – SEN/SEMH) in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get a sense of who you are and what makes you tick. Don’t be afraid to share your passion for supporting young people with SEN and SEMH needs.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially if you've worked with young people before. Focus on skills that align with our values, like patience, flexibility, and the ability to build trust. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do!
Craft a Compelling Note: In your short note, tell us why this role excites you! Share what draws you to working in alternative provision and how you think you can make a difference. This is your chance to connect with us on a personal level.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Beacon AP!
How to prepare for a job interview at Beacon Alternative School CIC
✨Know Your Students
Before the interview, take some time to understand the specific needs of students with SEN and SEMH. Familiarise yourself with strategies for building trust and supporting emotional regulation. This will show that you genuinely care about the role and the young people you'll be working with.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
Since no two days are the same at Beacon AP, be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in previous roles. Share examples of when you've had to think on your feet or adjust your approach to meet a student's needs. This will highlight your ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Beacon AP values a close-knit team, so be ready to talk about your experience working collaboratively. Discuss how you've contributed to a team in the past and how you can bring that spirit to their environment. Mention any specific instances where teamwork led to positive outcomes for students.
✨Bring Your Sense of Humour
A warm and approachable attitude is key in this role. Be prepared to share light-hearted anecdotes or moments from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with young people. A bit of humour can go a long way in building rapport and making learning enjoyable.