At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teaching and learning for children with special needs in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join an independent specialist school dedicated to therapeutic education for children aged 6 to 17.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pay rate and the chance to make a real difference in students' lives.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values resilience, creativity, and personal growth.
- Qualifications: A good understanding of English and Maths is essential; experience with special needs is a plus.
- Other info: This role offers term-time only work, perfect for students seeking flexible hours.
The predicted salary is between 9000 - 10000 £ per year.
Sector: Special Needs
Pay: £90-£100
Term: Full term, term time only
Our client is an independent specialist day school providing high-quality, therapeutic and child-centred education to boys and girls from 6 to 17 years of age in Essex. The children come from a wide range of backgrounds, but all have Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH). Many will also have other Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) such as Autism, ADHD, and communication difficulties.
The Role:
Teaching Assistants at their school know that no two days are the same and that no two children are the same either. Children at this school require very special adults who can support children with complex and challenging behaviours. TAs will understand that their children require lots of attention, just the right sort of communication, consistency and flexibility in equal measure, and a non-judgemental approach. They need to be resilient, persistent and solution focussed to meet the needs of our pupils and to do so they need to wear a lot of hats and be prepared to change them at a moment’s notice!
Teaching Assistants will:
- Support teaching and learning
- Work with children 1:1 or delivering sessions with small groups of students
- Manage classroom resources
- Take children on educational trips and visits
- Have their lunch with children who struggle socially
- Have a good basic understanding of English and Maths
- Keep children safe when they are experiencing heightened behaviours with strong behaviour management skills and excellent communication
- Create, play and teach games to pupils to develop their social skills or further learning
- Create amazing displays which support teaching and create an exceptional learning environment
- Celebrate success
- Participate in therapeutic training sessions or reflecting on difficult periods
SEN LSA employer: Beacon Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Beacon Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN LSA
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with SEMH and SEND. Understanding these conditions will help you connect better with the students and demonstrate your commitment to their well-being during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your adaptability and resilience in previous roles. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed challenging situations or behaviours, as this is crucial for a Teaching Assistant in a special needs environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with the school's ethos and values. Research the school’s approach to education and therapy, and be prepared to discuss how your personal philosophy aligns with theirs during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the special needs sector. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to meet others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to recommendations when applying for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN LSA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of a SEN LSA. Highlight your understanding of Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH) and any relevant experience you have.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your skills and experiences that align with the role. Emphasise your ability to support children with complex behaviours, your communication skills, and any relevant training or qualifications in special education.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with children with special needs. Include specific examples of how you've successfully supported similar students in the past and your approach to fostering a positive learning environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Beacon Education Ltd
✨Show Your Understanding of SEMH Needs
Make sure to demonstrate your knowledge of Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've supported children with similar challenges in the past, highlighting your ability to adapt your approach to meet individual needs.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Resilience
The role requires a lot of adaptability, so be prepared to discuss situations where you've had to change your approach on the fly. Illustrate your resilience by sharing experiences where you faced challenges and how you overcame them, showing that you can remain calm and solution-focused.
✨Highlight Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to talk about how you've successfully communicated with children who have communication difficulties. Provide examples of how you've tailored your communication style to suit different children and situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your behaviour management skills. Think of specific instances where you've managed challenging behaviours effectively, and be ready to explain your thought process and the strategies you used to ensure a positive outcome.