Teaching Assistant - Castle Wood School in Coventry

Castle Wood School, located at 50 Deedmore Road, Coventry, is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team. We value professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact on children's lives. Our vision, ‘Together, children first…’, drives everything we do.

You will likely be working with children who have complex autism, may be non-verbal, and have challenging behaviours. Experience and knowledge of Early Years practices are preferred, as they underpin all teaching and learning within the school.

We Offer:

• Fabulous, warm, and enthusiastic children to work with.
• A happy, welcoming school with a supportive team environment.
• Personalised continuing professional development to help you grow in your role.
• An excellent well-being package including occupational health, a counselling service, and a salary sacrifice scheme with childcare vouchers and a cycle-to-work scheme.
• Opportunities to work alongside experts from various disciplines.
• Support from governors and parents.
• Staff workwear provided, along with free tea and coffee.
• Free on-site car parking.

Hours: 33.5 hours per week, 38 weeks term time plus 5 training days (39 weeks in total). Monday - Wednesday: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm.

Key Requirements:

• This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and appointment will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Castle Wood is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• Previous Applicants Need Not Re-Apply.

Who are we looking for?

• GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to use relevant technology and equipment effectively.
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• A commitment to the happiness, well-being, self-esteem, and progress of all students at the school.
• Personal skills and qualities that enable the formation of positive relationships with children, parents, and carers.
• High aspirations for both their pupils and themselves.
• A strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) would be an advantage, but a willingness to learn and embrace EYFS practices and principles is essential.
• Previous experience working in a special school is desirable but not essential.

Please apply using the online application form ensuring you outline your skills, abilities, and experience in line with the key areas on the advert and Job Description and Person Specification.

Our workforce data shows that men and people from minority ethnic backgrounds are under-represented; we encourage applicants from these backgrounds to apply. This does not prevent individuals with or without other protected characteristics as set out within the Equality Act 2010 from applying for this post.

The successful candidate will be required to undertake an enhanced criminal record check via the DBS, all relevant safeguarding and pre-employment clearances, and the receipt of two satisfactory references.

Following recommendations from Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) for an additional pre-employment check with effect 1 Sept 22, please note, an online search may form part of this recruitment process.