At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the educational and social development of pupils with special needs.
- Company: Chiltern Wood School, a nurturing environment focused on wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a tight-knit team in a well-resourced school with great career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with complex learning needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting individuals with special needs is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 23969 - 25711 £ per year.
Location: Studley Green
36 hours per week term time + INSET days (39 weeks per year)
Bucks Pay Range 3.16 FTE: £29,114 - £31,230 per annum - Actual pay £23,969 - £25,711 per annum
In September 2026, Chiltern Wood School, Studley Green site, will open a new class. We are looking to recruit a new Senior Support Assistant to join our already established early years team at this site in their new class from September 2026. The Studley Green Site currently supports 3 classes of children with severe and complex learning needs, though we anticipate that may expand further, and has been refurbished to ensure our complex pupils can be supported in the correct therapeutic environment. This small school benefits from lovely outdoor space and a tight-knit team atmosphere. 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 captures 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 a satisfactory, Enhanced DBS, qualifications and reference checks.
Senior Support Assistant - Studley Green in High Wycombe employer: Chiltern Wood School
Chiltern Wood School in Studley Green is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for its staff and pupils alike. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing and professional development, the school fosters a collaborative work culture where team members are encouraged to grow and thrive. The picturesque outdoor space and the commitment to a therapeutic approach ensure that both staff and students can flourish in a positive and engaging atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Assistant - Studley Green in High Wycombe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Chiltern Wood School on LinkedIn or through social media. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the school culture and what they really value in a Senior Support Assistant.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to supporting children with special needs. We can even role-play with a friend to boost our confidence and refine our answers!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for education and support during the interview. Share specific examples of how we've helped students in the past, especially those with complex needs. This will help us stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email expressing our appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows we’re genuinely interested in joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Assistant - Studley Green in High Wycombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Senior Support Assistant. We want to see how you can contribute to our team at Chiltern Wood School, so don’t hold back!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting children with special needs shine through in your application. We’re all about building positive relationships, so share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to this cause.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
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 ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chiltern Wood School
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to research Chiltern Wood School and its therapeutic approach. Understanding their values and how they support pupils with complex needs will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully supported children with special needs or worked collaboratively with other professionals. Sharing these experiences will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since the school prides itself on a tight-knit team atmosphere, be ready to discuss how you work well in a team. Highlight any previous experiences where you’ve contributed to a positive team dynamic or supported colleagues.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the new class opening in 2026 or how the school supports professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school’s future.