At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with special needs in their educational and social development.
- Company: Chiltern Wood School, a nurturing environment for children with complex learning needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a tight-knit team dedicated to pupil wellbeing and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while working in a caring community.
- Qualifications: Experience in supporting children with special needs and a passion for education.
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
Teaching and Learning
- 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 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 culture where team members are encouraged to grow and thrive. The picturesque outdoor space and close-knit community enhance the rewarding experience of working with children with complex needs, making it a truly fulfilling place to contribute to meaningful educational outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Support Assistant - Studley Green
✨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 should also think of examples from our past experiences that showcase our skills in communication and teamwork, especially in a therapeutic environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Show our passion for education and support! During the interview, let’s share why we’re excited about working with children with severe and complex learning needs. Our enthusiasm can really set us apart from other candidates.
✨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 the role at Chiltern Wood School.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Support Assistant - Studley Green
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with special 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 therapeutic approach and the specific needs of our pupils.
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 understand and directly related to the role.
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 this fantastic opportunity at Chiltern Wood School.
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 prioritise the wellbeing of pupils and staff will help you align your answers with their ethos during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with severe and complex learning needs. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported students or collaborated with other professionals, like therapists or psychologists.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with a tight-knit team, be ready to discuss how you contribute to a positive team atmosphere. Share examples of how you've built relationships with colleagues and parents, and how you’ve worked collaboratively to support students' development.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
In a dynamic environment like Chiltern Wood School, being adaptable is key. Be prepared to talk about times when you've had to adjust your approach to meet the needs of individual pupils or respond to unexpected challenges in the classroom.
