At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex learning needs and help them develop life skills.
- Company: Chiltern Wood School, dedicated to nurturing and empowering students.
- Benefits: Supportive team environment, professional development, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with special needs and a passion for education.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our Cressex departments host children with severe and complex learning needs (including complex autism), who follow a life-skills curriculum to ensure they leave our school with the skills to live as independently as possible. You will be well supported by experienced and welcoming staff within a well-run, hard-working school who put the wellbeing of pupils and staff at the forefront. We pride ourselves on building positive relationships with our pupils, their families and supporting professionals to enable communication, physical, social and emotional development for each individual. Chiltern Wood follows a therapeutic approach and is well-supported by occupational and speech and language therapists who work across all sites.
Job Description
- Assist in the educational and social development of pupils under the direction and guidance of the class teacher, line manager and other school staff.
- Assist in the implementation of Individual Education Programmes and curriculum target setting for pupils and help monitor their progress.
- Provide support for individual pupils inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities.
- Work with other professionals, such as therapists and psychologists, as necessary.
- Assist with the maintenance of pupil records.
- Support pupils with a range of special needs and help develop their social skills.
- Plan and prepare one morning or afternoon lesson per week with support from the class teacher.
- Lead class to allow class teacher time for planning, preparation and assessment.
- Supervise class to cover short-term absence of class teacher as required.
Administrative Duties
- Ensure learning journals effectively capture pupils' progress, under the direction of the class teacher.
- Daily communication with parents.
- Timely reporting of behaviour, medical, and safeguarding information.
Standards and Quality Assurance
- Support the aims and ethos of the school.
- Set a good example in terms of dress, punctuality and attendance.
- Attend team and staff meetings as required.
- Undertake professional duties that may be reasonably assigned by the class teacher.
- Be proactive in matters relating to health and safety.
Other duties and responsibilities
- Attend to the physical well-being of pupils as appropriate to their individual needs, including personal care.
- Actively supervise pupils at the beginning and end of the day, including escorting to transport.
- Actively supervise and engage pupils in a range of activities during break and lunchtimes.
- Undertake Team Teach training and be prepared to undertake any training necessary to support professional development.
- Undertake Child Protection training in accordance with Bucks Council guidance.
Chiltern Wood School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are made subject to satisfactory checks including Enhanced DBS, qualifications and references.
Senior Support Assistant - Cressex in High Wycombe employer: Chiltern Wood School
Chiltern Wood School is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and pupils. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from ongoing training opportunities, including Team Teach and Child Protection training, ensuring they are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with complex learning needs. Located in Cressex, the school prides itself on its collaborative work culture, where experienced staff work together to create positive relationships with pupils and their families, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Assistant - Cressex in High Wycombe
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Research Chiltern Wood and understand their ethos. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you, which can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario-based questions. Think about how you'd handle specific situations with pupils who have complex needs. Practising these responses can really set you apart in the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Assistant - Cressex in High Wycombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with complex needs shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in education or support roles. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Chiltern Wood School.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to spot!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chiltern Wood School
✨Know the Curriculum Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with the life-skills curriculum that the school follows. Understand how it supports children with severe and complex learning needs, especially those with autism. This will show your commitment to their educational approach and help you discuss how you can contribute.
✨Highlight Your Experience with Special Needs
Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles where you've supported children with special needs. Discuss any strategies you've used to enhance their social skills or assist in their educational development. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working closely with teachers, therapists, and other professionals, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share instances where you've successfully worked as part of a team to achieve positive outcomes for pupils. This will highlight your adaptability and communication skills.
✨Prepare Questions About Wellbeing Initiatives
Think of thoughtful questions regarding how the school prioritises the wellbeing of both pupils and staff. This shows that you value a supportive environment and are keen to contribute to a positive atmosphere. It also gives you insight into the school's culture and values.
