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- Tasks: Support teachers and enhance learning for children with special needs.
- Company: Birkett House School, a popular all-age special school in South Leicestershire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, pension scheme, and staff wellbeing services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 3 or equivalent, plus Maths/English to NVQ level 2.
- Other info: Join a warm, welcoming team and enjoy a fulfilling career in special education.
The predicted salary is between 20950 - 26832 £ per year.
Birkett House School has vacancies for permanent full-time Senior Teaching Assistant(s). Birkett House is a very popular and successful all age special school for pupils with learning difficulties. We are a multi-sited school in South Leicestershire with the main school site in Wigston, and we also have inclusion units at Thistly Meadow Primary School (Blaby), Little Hill Primary School (Wigston), Thomas Estley Community College (Broughton Astley) and a purpose-built Senior Department based in Countesthorpe.
We currently have two STA vacancies; one is within our main Senior Department based in Countesthorpe and one is within our inclusion unit at Thomas Estley Community College based in Broughton Astley. A Senior Teaching Assistant is an integral member of a class team who works closely to support the teacher in providing the teaching and learning of children and directing other teaching assistants operating within the class team. The school provides a comprehensive professional development programme.
Qualifications required: NVQ level 3 (or working towards this level) or equivalent higher qualification; Maths / English qualification to NVQ level 2.
Contract type: Term time only (38 weeks per year) + 5 additional training days
Contract term: Full time, Permanent
Hours: 33.75 hrs / wk 8am to 3.15pm (Seniors)
Grade: Grade 7, Point 11 (£13.90 per hour)
Actual starting salary: £20,950 (Seniors site) Pro rata of F.T.E. £26,832.
As an employer we offer staff:
- Comprehensive professional development programme
- Competitive pension scheme
- Staff wellbeing service
- Financial wellbeing service
- Free parking
Additionally, you’ll work with:
- Delightful children who will make you laugh every day
- Enthusiastic, dedicated staff, committed to ensuring the best outcomes for all pupils
- A warm and welcoming team
This is an exciting opportunity to join an outward-looking school and to contribute to the development of special education in Leicestershire. If you are outgoing, flexible, pupil-focused and enjoy working with all kinds of people, download and complete an application form, please also include within your application a statement stating why you consider yourself suitable for this role and any other relevant information that is not covered elsewhere.
The closing date is Sunday 30 / 11 / 25 but please note that this vacancy might close sooner if sufficient applications are received so please don’t delay in applying if you are interested. Shortlisted candidates will be expected to spend at least half a day in class before the interview date, and this visit does form part of our interview procedure. Interviews will take place w / c 08 / 12 / 2025 and the process will include you leading a session in class (planning provided) and a formal interview.
For further details about the school please visit our website or contact the school office.
Safeguarding Statement: Birkett House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is designated as a regulated activity and requires enhanced criminal records check for a regulated activity (including a barred list). Please note shortlisted candidates may be subject to online searches to determine suitability to work with children and keep them safe.
Senior Teaching Assistants employer: Birkett House School
Contact Detail:
Birkett House School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Teaching Assistants
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Birkett House School and its values. Understanding their approach to special education will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through potential questions with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your experience and how it aligns with the role of a Senior Teaching Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! During your classroom visit, be proactive and engage with the pupils. Demonstrating your ability to connect with them will leave a lasting impression on the interviewers and highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital side of education, which is super important in today’s teaching environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Teaching Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what the role of a Senior Teaching Assistant involves and how you can contribute to our team at Birkett House School.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Highlight your NVQ level 3 or equivalent qualifications in your application. If you're working towards it, let us know! We’re keen on seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for.
Personal Statement is Key: Don’t forget to include a personal statement explaining why you think you’re a great fit for this role. This is your chance to shine and show us your passion for supporting children with learning difficulties!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website to ensure your application gets to us smoothly. Remember, the sooner you apply, the better your chances are, as we might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birkett House School
✨Know the School Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Birkett House School. Understand its values, mission, and the specific needs of the pupils. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Prepare for the Classroom Visit
Since shortlisted candidates will spend half a day in class, make sure to prepare for this experience. Think about how you can engage with the pupils and support the teacher effectively. Practise leading a session, as this will be a key part of your interview process.
✨Showcase Your Qualifications and Experience
Be ready to discuss your NVQ level 3 or equivalent qualifications and any relevant experience you have working with children with learning difficulties. Highlight specific examples where you've made a positive impact in a similar role.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility
As a Senior Teaching Assistant, you'll be part of a class team. Be prepared to talk about your ability to work collaboratively with teachers and other staff. Share examples of how you've adapted to different situations and supported your colleagues in the past.