At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with additional needs and help them thrive in a positive learning environment.
- Company: Great Western Academy, a vibrant school focused on Achievement, Care, and Excellence.
- Benefits: Career progression, excellent training, state-of-the-art facilities, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Opportunities for overtime leading enrichment sessions and a commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience with students or a strong interest in special educational needs.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
Great Western Academy opened in September 2018 and now accommodates over 1,000 students in years 7 to 11 and the Sixth Form. The school is heavily oversubscribed in years 7 to 11 and the Sixth Form is flourishing. Our philosophy of Achievement, Care and Excellence permeates all we do, with Care firmly at the centre of this. We use the phrase “Work Hard, Be Kind” to summarise what we expect of students and to create a culture of positive support where students behave well and are able to thrive, whatever their needs, and where they are proactively and effectively safeguarded.
Great Western Academy welcomes all students; the SEND team promotes our inclusive approach and ensures that students with additional needs are fully supported with their learning. The successful candidate will usually be able to demonstrate a strong track record of working with students, their parents, and a range of professionals within and beyond the school to ensure that every student is supported to make the best progress possible. However, applications are also welcome from candidates new to working in a SEND team who show enthusiasm for providing all students with the best opportunities possible and who are willing and able to quickly learn from our established team.
The successful candidate will join our SEND team, reporting to our experienced SENDCo. Each member of our team is placed in a specialist hub, focusing on a particular field of SEND provision (Cognition and learning, communication and interaction and Social, Emotional and Mental health). Our vision is that our learning mentors will each focus on a particular field of additional needs provision (or have the potential to do so with appropriate training and support). Experience, qualifications, or simply a strong interest in a specific area of SEND work would be an asset to any application.
Great Western Academy supports staff career progression. Two of our three Hub Leaders started their careers at Great Western Academy as Learning Mentors. There is also an opportunity for overtime 2 evenings a week for suitable candidates to lead our enrichment sessions.
Additional benefits of working at GWA include:
- Excellent CPD program
- State of the art facilities - including dedicated student support area for SEND students
- Leading edge ICT, including a laptop provided for all staff and pupils
- Medical and Wellbeing Support Service
- Easy access to the A419 with free parking on site
Great Western Academy aims to radically improve the life chances of every student who attends. We use our brand-new building and state-of-the-art facilities (including a purpose-designed SEND suite) to help achieve this, but it is the fantastic team of staff who turn our vision into reality. If you have the proven ability to contribute to our inclusive approach in the classroom and beyond then we would be delighted to hear from you.
Further details are available on the Academy website and in the information documents attached. If you have further questions prior to application, please contact Charlotte Greenwood (Assistant Business Manager) on recruitment@gwacademy.co.uk.
Safeguarding Statement: Great Western Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from under-represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
Learning Mentor (Teaching Assistant) employer: Great Western Academy
Great Western Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of both its students and staff. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and professional development, employees benefit from excellent CPD programmes, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive work culture that encourages career progression. The academy's focus on 'Achievement, Care and Excellence' creates a positive environment where Learning Mentors can thrive and make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Learning Mentor (Teaching Assistant)
✨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 Great Western Academy 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 Learning Mentor (Teaching Assistant) at Great Western Academy, 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 Learning Mentor (Teaching Assistant)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Great Western Academy, 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 Great Western Academy 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 Great Western Academy
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Great Western Academy 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 Great Western Academy.
✨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.
