At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex learning needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Conifers House School, a therapeutic and inclusive school.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to promoting wellbeing and independence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Compassionate attitude and willingness to learn about special educational needs.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Midhurst GU29 9BG
Salary: Competitive, pro rata, dependent on experience
Hours: Up to 35 hours per week (term time only, plus holiday entitlement)
Welcome to Conifers House School. At Conifers House School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. We are a therapeutic, inclusive school supporting children aged 5-16 with complex learning needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), and a wide range of associated difficulties. We are seeking compassionate and proactive Teaching Assistants to work alongside class teachers and therapists in delivering high-quality, personalised education. You will play a key role in promoting communication, independence, and emotional wellbeing in a safe, nurturing environment.
Job Purpose
To support pupils with complex SEND in the classroom and during unstructured times, working under the direction of a class teacher and in collaboration with the wider multidisciplinary team. The role involves delivering planned interventions, supporting communication, behaviour, and engagement, and maintaining a consistent therapeutic environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Classroom and Pupil Support
- Work closely with the teacher to implement planned learning activities and differentiated support
- Use a range of communication approaches including PECS, Makaton, AAC, and visual schedules
- Provide consistent, calm support to help pupils manage emotional regulation and transitions
- Promote engagement in lessons through sensory strategies, movement breaks, and positive reinforcement
- Assist pupils with personal care, eating, and mobility, as required
- Therapeutic and Behavioural Support
- Implement strategies from the Zones of Regulation and other therapeutic frameworks
- Support delivery of occupational and speech and language therapy targets
- Contribute to the development and review of EHCPs, behaviour support plans, and pupil profiles
- Actively reinforce the school's trauma-informed and autism-friendly approaches
- Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- Follow Conifers House's safeguarding policies and procedures at all times
- Supervise pupils during transitions, break times, and off-site activities
- Support safe handling practices if trained and required
- Monitor wellbeing and engagement, and report any concerns to the class teacher or DSL
- Professional Responsibilities
- Model The Conifers House Way: Respect, Honesty, Kindness, Commitment, and Creativity
- Work collaboratively with staff, families, and external professionals
- Reflect on practice and participate in CPD and school-wide training
- Maintain accurate records as directed and contribute to team meetings
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Conifers House School, please click apply to be redirected to our website to complete your application.
Teaching Assistant - SEN (All Key Stages) employer: Conifers House School
At Conifers House School, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. Our team of compassionate professionals enjoys competitive salaries, term-time hours, and ample opportunities for professional development, all while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children with complex learning needs. Located in the serene setting of Midhurst, our school promotes a culture of respect, honesty, and creativity, ensuring that every staff member feels valued and empowered to grow in their role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - SEN (All Key Stages)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Conifers House School on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to SEN support. Think about how you would use strategies like PECS or Makaton in real scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for inclusive education! During interviews, share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to supporting children with complex needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the Conifers House team.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - SEN (All Key Stages)
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 a Teaching Assistant at Conifers House School. We want to see how you can support our pupils with complex needs!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children with special educational needs shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in our pupils' lives!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your relevant experience and skills, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Conifers House School
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Conifers House School's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to inclusivity and therapeutic support will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Teaching Assistant, effective communication is key. Be prepared to discuss your experience with different communication methods like PECS or Makaton. Share specific examples of how you've used these strategies to support students in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Compassion
This role requires a compassionate approach. Think of instances where you've shown empathy and understanding towards students with complex needs. Highlight how you’ve helped them manage emotional regulation or transitions.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to supporting pupils with SEND. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
