At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs in a dynamic classroom environment.
- Company: SEN School in Royston dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, term-time only contract, and potential for permanent role.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for education and ability to support diverse learning needs.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a fulfilling career in education.
Location: Meldreth, Nr Royston, Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire border
While professional experience and qualifications are key for this role, make sure to check you have the preferable soft skills before applying if required.
Salary: £12.37 – £13.49 per hour (£22,102.72 – £24,103.93 actual salary) depending on experience and qualifications
Hours: Full time – 40 hrs per week, Mon – Fri. Term time only
The School is an independent Special day school which provides a highly specialist learning environment for students aged 6 to 19 who have a range of MLD and SLD needs including autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and associated difficulties, who require an individualised, specialist approach. Many of our students have complex medical needs and sensory/ physical impairments. Our students are supported to manage sensory overload, anxiety, low self-esteem, low confidence, and difficulty with transitions which is often demonstrative through their behaviours.
We are a well resourced school with exceptional facilities and therapeutic team.
Due to the continued increase in our student role and expansion of the school provision we are currently looking for a Teaching Assistant to join our NAS accredited specialist team to create better outcomes and life chances for our students in their preparation for adult life.
Role responsibilities:
* Be crucial in supporting students with their learning, development and progress in all areas of the curriculum within a range of learning contexts including the classroom, the local environment and within the community
* Help young people with a range of needs, including PMLD, complex medical conditions and autism to achieve their educational and personal goals
* Support an environment that fosters equality, diversity and the rights of all young people to be seen as learners and be treated with respect
* Place an emphasis on support and empowerment of young people
* Develop a greater understanding of Special Education issues; the values for us and demonstrate these in all aspects of the role
* Provide high quality support in all aspects of the role
* The role may require participation in physical intervention and personal care routines
Duties will vary, you must expect to diversify and lend a hand wherever is required.
We are looking for candidates who are:
* Willing and able to work towards getting formal qualifications, attend training and to take responsibility for your own development – All fully funded by us
* Passionate and show compassion for children and young people with additional needs
* Ambitious and determined to overcome barriers to learning
* A lover of the outdoor and community learning
* Capable of having a vision to see potential rather than disability
* Committed fully to our safeguarding values and procedures
* Proactive, rather than reactive
* Creative thinkers with solution focus
* Able to work supportively as a team member and confidentially when working independently, within a range of settings
* Excellent communication skills, particularly in relation to our students communication needs
* Able to understand and deliver effective education and support in line with identified needs
* Educated to at least level 2 (or equivalent) Maths and English
What’s on Offer here?
We believe in supporting you as much as we support the children and young people in our care. Here’s a snapshot of the fantastic benefits waiting for you:
Grow with Us – Training & Development
Learning never stops here! We offer a wide range of training programmes and career development opportunities to help you build your skills and reach your goals.
Save Money on Everyday Essentials
With the rising cost of living, our Perkbox app helps you stretch your money further:
* Discounts on groceries, phone plans, internet, dining out, gym memberships & more
* Access to our Cycle to Work and Car Scheme
Access Wagestream – a financial wellbeing app that helps you track earnings, save, get expert money advice, and even access part of your pay early when needed.
Competitive Pay & Reward
We regularly benchmark our pay and benefits to stay ahead of the curve. You’ll enjoy:
* Enhanced Annual Leave
* Company Sick Pay
* Enhanced Pension
* Life Assurance
24/7 GP Access – For You & Your Household
Need a doctor? No problem. Book a phone or video appointment anytime, day or night. This service covers everyone in your household.
UK Health Cash Plan
Cover everyday healthcare costs like dental and optician bills. You and your children are included in the scheme, and you can upgrade to add your partner too!
Employee Assistance Programme
Your wellbeing matters. Get confidential support on a wide range of issues, including:
* Freephone counselling (available 24/7)
* Online tools and resources
Refer a Friend – Earn £1,000!
Know someone who’d be a great fit? Refer them and get rewarded!
(*Terms apply)
Successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment safeguarding checks including an enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check.
The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Group is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are \”spent\” unless they are \”protected\” under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.\”
The Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children and young adults in our care and is a disability confident and equal opportunities employer. xiskglj Please note that candidates that are shortlisted might be subject to an online search.
Please contact Mathure on (phone number removed), for further information
Teaching Assistant employer: Blackstone Recruitment Limited
Contact Detail:
Blackstone Recruitment Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN students. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their mission. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for working with children with special needs. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your dedication and understanding of their unique challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for enthusiastic Teaching Assistants like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially with SEN students. We want to see how your skills match the needs of our school, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for supporting diverse learners!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re excited about the Teaching Assistant role and how your background makes you a great fit. Keep it personal and engaging – we love to see your personality come through!
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, clarity is key. We appreciate straightforward answers that get to the point. Avoid jargon and keep your language simple – we want to understand your qualifications without any confusion!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place quickly. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackstone Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your SEN Basics
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with PMLD, ASD, and learning difficulties. Understanding these conditions will help you demonstrate your suitability for the role and show that you’re genuinely interested in supporting these students.
✨Showcase Your Patience and Empathy
During the interview, be ready to share examples from your past experiences where you've shown patience and empathy. This is crucial in a teaching assistant role, especially in an SEN environment, so make sure to highlight these qualities.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Think of insightful questions to ask about the school’s approach to supporting students with special educational needs. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours.
✨Dress Professionally but Comfortably
While it’s important to look professional, remember that you might be working with children who require a lot of movement and interaction. Choose an outfit that reflects your professionalism but also allows you to feel comfortable and approachable.