At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students in and out of the classroom, delivering targeted interventions.
- Company: Join Downend School, a caring and inclusive learning environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and family-friendly leave packages.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive community and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help them reach their full potential.
- Qualifications: Experience with individual needs and a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 19448 - 19448 £ per year.
Salary: CSET10 £26,403 FTE, £19,948 prorated for 32.5 hours per week.
Hours: Part time and full time applicants considered. (multiple roles may be available)
Working weeks: 39 per year (term time + INSET)
Contract type: Fixed term until 31/08/2027
About the role
The ideal person will reinforce the excellent work of the teaching staff by supporting the individual both within and outside of the classroom environment. You will be a professional role model to the pupils, with the confidence to challenge and the creativity to motivate. Your key role will be delivering targeted interventions to identified students who need additional support with maintaining high expectations as directed, and help identify personal aspirations. You will work as part of a team to promote the emotional, physical and educational development of pupils, including those with special needs.
About you
You’re someone who brings warmth and a deep commitment to inclusive education. You understand that every student is unique and you’re ready to support them in reaching their full potential. We’re looking for someone who:
- Has experience supporting pupils with individual needs, particularly those with EHCPs
- Can work independently, take initiative, and adapt to changing needs
- Is confident delivering pre-planned lessons to small groups
- Builds strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and families
- Is a role model for professionalism, positivity, and care
- Communicates clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing
- Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
- Has a good level of general education
- Holds a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or is willing to work towards it
About us
At Downend School we provide a safe, supportive and challenging learning environment that aims to inspire and empower young people to grasp opportunity; to reach their potential and excel; to develop responsibility and integrity and to respect themselves and others. We have a strong ethos based on our core PRIDE values of participation, respect, identity, determination and excellence. We set standards high and aim to nurture young people who are well equipped to become active and positive members of the school community and to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in a time of rapid change. We are proud of the care and support we offer our students. We strongly believe in the value of creating a friendly and caring school community where youngsters feel a sense of belonging and feel valued and respected. Happy and motivated students will flourish and become successful young people. Above all, Downend is a happy school.
We can offer you:
- A supportive trust and school community
- Strong collaboration across the trust family of schools and access to a centralised team of specialists across all areas of school operations
- A commitment to high‑quality CPD, with dedicated time and budget for your development
- A values‑driven ethos where diversity, equity and inclusion are lived every day
- Recognition of continuous service (modification order) to protect employment rights and entitlements
- Teachers’ Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions and death‑in‑service cover
- Occupational sick pay to support you during illness or unexpected emergencies
- Family‑friendly leave packages to help maintain a healthy work–life balance
CSET is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and communities, as we recognise the importance and benefit this has for our students.
Education Support Assistant in Bristol employer: Downend School
At Downend School, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. As an Education Support Assistant, you will benefit from a strong commitment to professional development, collaborative teamwork, and a values-driven culture that prioritises diversity and inclusion. With generous benefits such as the Teachers’ Pension Scheme, occupational sick pay, and family-friendly leave packages, we ensure our staff feel valued and supported in their vital roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Education Support Assistant in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, check out Downend School's website and social media. Understanding their values and ethos will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your delivery! Since you'll be supporting students with individual needs, think about how you can demonstrate your teaching skills during the interview. Prepare a mini-lesson or intervention strategy to showcase your creativity and confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Build rapport with everyone you meet! From the receptionist to the interview panel, make sure to greet everyone warmly. This shows your commitment to creating positive relationships, which is key in an education support role.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can set you apart. It’s a great way to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and remind them why you’d be a fantastic fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Education Support Assistant in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education:Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting students! Share experiences that highlight your commitment to inclusive education and how you've made a difference in students' lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to know how you fit into our values and the role of Education Support Assistant.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically so we can easily see your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, plus you’ll find all the details you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Downend School
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Education Support Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as delivering targeted interventions and supporting students with individual needs. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience supporting pupils, especially those with EHCPs. Prepare specific examples of how you've helped students overcome challenges or achieve their goals. This will highlight your ability to build strong relationships and adapt to the unique needs of each student.
✨Emphasise Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. During the interview, be clear and articulate when answering questions. You might also want to share examples of how you've communicated with students, staff, and families in the past. This will showcase your ability to connect with others and foster a positive learning environment.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with Downend School's core PRIDE values: participation, respect, identity, determination, and excellence. Think about how your personal values align with theirs and be prepared to discuss this during the interview. Showing that you share their commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive school community will set you apart from other candidates.
