At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex learning needs in their educational and social development.
- Company: Chiltern Wood School, dedicated to nurturing independence in students.
- Benefits: Supportive team environment, professional development opportunities, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Join a committed team focused on safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with special needs support and a passion for helping others.
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 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 support children with complex needs. The school's commitment to wellbeing and positive relationships creates a rewarding work culture where staff can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of their students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Assistant - Cressex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Chiltern Wood School on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the school's ethos and values. Think about how your experiences align with their mission of supporting children with complex needs. Show them you're not just a fit, but a perfect match!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to special needs support. Use real-life examples from your past roles to demonstrate your skills and commitment to pupil wellbeing.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Assistant - Cressex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion 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 special education or working with children with autism. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Chiltern Wood.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your skills and experiences, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
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.
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. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the educational and social development of pupils, especially those with complex needs. This shows your commitment and understanding of their unique requirements.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working closely with teachers, therapists, and other professionals, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples from your past experiences where teamwork led to positive outcomes for students or projects.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle specific situations involving pupils with special needs. Think through scenarios where you might need to support a child emotionally or physically, and articulate your approach clearly during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Wellbeing
The school prioritises the wellbeing of both pupils and staff. Convey your passion for creating a supportive environment and how you plan to contribute to this ethos. Discuss any relevant training or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare.
