At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex autism in a fun and inclusive learning environment.
- Company: Castle Wood School, dedicated to making a positive impact on children's lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent well-being package, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a welcoming school culture with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths and English, strong communication skills, and teamwork ability.
The predicted salary is between 20419 - 23209 £ per year.
At Castle Wood, we value professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact on children's lives. Our vision, ‘Together, children first…’, drives everything we do. We are looking for Teaching Assistants with initiative, dedication, commitment, a sense of fun, and the ability to work as part of a team.
Working Hours: 33.5 hours per week over 39 weeks (38 weeks term time plus 5 training days). Monday–Wednesday 8:30 am–3:30 pm, Thursday 8:30 am–4:30 pm, Friday 8:30 am–3:30 pm. 30‑minute unpaid lunch break each day.
Responsibilities:
- Work with children who have complex autism, may be non‑verbal and have challenging behaviours, in both 1:1 and group settings.
- Support the delivery of the Early Years curriculum and underpin all teaching and learning within the school.
- Collaborate with the teaching team, specialists, governors and parents to promote children's well‑being and progress.
- Maintain a safe, inclusive and stimulating environment for all pupils.
Qualifications & Experience:
- 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.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
- Commitment to the happiness, well‑being, self‑esteem and progress of all students.
- Personal skills and qualities that enable positive relationships with children, parents and carers.
- High aspirations for both pupils and self.
- Desirable: Understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and/or experience working in a special school.
Post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and subject to a satisfactory DBS check.
Benefits:
- Welcoming school culture and supportive team environment.
- Personalised continuing professional development.
- Excellent well‑being package including occupational health, counselling service and salary sacrifice scheme with childcare vouchers and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Local government pension scheme arrangements.
- Opportunities to work alongside experts from various disciplines.
- Staff workwear provided, free tea and coffee, on‑site car parking.
Equality and Diversity: Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including men and minority ethnic groups. Everyone is welcome to apply, irrespective of protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010.
Teaching Assistant - Castle Wood School employer: Coventry City Council
Castle Wood School is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong emphasis on professional development, our team enjoys personalised training opportunities and a comprehensive well-being package, including access to occupational health and counselling services. Located in Coventry, we pride ourselves on our collaborative culture, where every member contributes to making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with complex needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - Castle Wood School
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like Coventry City Council looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Teaching Assistant - Castle Wood School at Coventry City Council, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - Castle Wood School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Coventry City Council, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Coventry City Council and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coventry City Council
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Coventry City Council might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Coventry City Council.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
