At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH challenges, providing 1:1 and group interventions.
- Company: Join a dedicated team in a Pupil Referral Unit in Wakefield.
- Benefits: Earn £85 - £110 per day, with weekly pay and free professional development.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for growth and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH or challenging behaviour is highly valued.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 27500 € per year.
Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Salary: £85 - £110 per day
Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-term
Setting: Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) / Alternative Provision
About the Role
Are you a resilient, high-energy individual who thrives in challenging environments? We are currently seeking a committed Teaching Assistant to join a specialized Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) in Wakefield. This role is centered on supporting pupils who have been disengaged from mainstream education, many of whom face significant Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges and display complex behaviours. You will work as part of a tight-knit team to re-engage these young people, helping them build confidence and academic stability in a non-traditional classroom setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Engagement: Provide 1:1 and small group intervention to re-engage pupils with their learning.
- Behavior Management: Use proven de-escalation techniques to manage challenging situations calmly and effectively.
- Mentoring: Act as a positive role model, building strong, trusting relationships with students who may have had negative experiences with education.
- Support: Assist Class Teachers in delivering adapted lessons that meet the specific emotional and academic needs of the pupils.
- Progress Tracking: Monitor emotional wellbeing and behavioural progress, providing detailed feedback to the Senior Leadership Team.
Requirements
- Experience: Previous experience working with SEMH, ADHD, or challenging behaviour (PRU, Youth Work, or Residential Care backgrounds are highly valued).
- Resilience: A "thick skin" and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Approach: A non-judgmental, empathetic, and firm-but-fair approach to student engagement.
- Desirable: Training in Team Teach or other positive handling/de-escalation strategies is a significant advantage.
- Compliance: A valid Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one).
- Availability: Full-time (Monday - Friday) during term time.
What We Offer
- Competitive Pay: £85 - £110 per day, paid weekly via PAYE.
- Wakefield Expertise: A dedicated consultant with deep knowledge of West Yorkshire schools.
- Professional Growth: Access to free CPD, including Safeguarding and Team Teach refresher courses.
- Rewarding Work: The chance to make a real impact on the lives of Wakefield's most vulnerable young people.
- Bonus: "Refer a Friend" schemes.
How to Apply
If you have the grit and passion to succeed in a Wakefield PRU, we want to hear from you. Please submit your CV via the application link to be considered for this rewarding role. We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All candidates must undergo a formal registration process.
Sen Teaching Assistant in Castleford employer: GAC Education
Join a dedicated team in Wakefield, where your role as a SEMH Teaching Assistant will not only provide competitive pay but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth through access to free CPD and a strong emphasis on teamwork, ensuring you thrive in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sen Teaching Assistant in Castleford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education or related fields. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a job opening or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience with SEMH aligns with their mission. We want to see that passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your behaviour management techniques before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to handle challenging situations. It shows you're prepared for the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Sen Teaching Assistant in Castleford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the SEMH Teaching Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience with SEMH, ADHD, or challenging behaviours to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working in a Pupil Referral Unit and how your approach aligns with our values. Keep it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Resilience:In your application, don’t shy away from sharing examples of how you've handled challenging situations in the past. We want to see your thick skin and calm approach in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board to make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at GAC Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a SEMH Teaching Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by pupils in a PRU and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Showcase Your Resilience
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to demonstrate your resilience and ability to handle challenging situations. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed difficult behaviours or supported someone through a tough time. This will highlight your suitability for the position.
✨Emphasise Empathy and Approach
During the interview, convey your empathetic approach to working with students who have faced negative experiences in education. Discuss how you build trusting relationships and your strategies for engaging pupils. This will show that you understand the importance of a supportive environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the team dynamics, the specific challenges the school faces, or how they measure progress. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.
