Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young adults with learning difficulties in their transition to independence.
- Company: Join a dedicated school focused on empowering students aged 16-25+ with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, immediate start, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while working in beautiful Dorset countryside with specialist facilities.
- Qualifications: Experience with young people with learning difficulties is essential; relevant qualifications are desirable.
- Other info: A valid UK driving licence is required; safeguarding knowledge is crucial.
Location: Poole
Salary: £13.68 - £16.12 per hour (depending on experience)
Contract Type: Full time/Permanent
Start Date: Immediate
Are you passionate about empowering young adults with learning difficulties to achieve independence and success?
Join our dedicated team in Poole as an Over 16 Teaching Assistant (TA) and help shape brighter futures through education and support.
About the School
The school is an education setting based for 16 – 25+ years old with Special Educational Needs. It is based on 350 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside. The school operates enterprise activities and vocational teaching methods to bridge the gap between education and employment for young people and adults with SEN in Dorset and the local area. The school focuses on vocations like horticulture, agriculture, equine skills and animal care as well as many more, to enrich the lives and education of its pupils.
Key Responsibilities
- Individual Support: Provide tailored one-on-one or small group support to students, assisting with academic tasks, life skills, and personal development.
- Life Skills Development: Support students in learning practical skills such as cooking, budgeting, travel training, and workplace readiness.
- Community Integration: Encourage and facilitate participation in community-based learning and social activities to build confidence and independence.
- Collaborative Planning: Work closely with teachers, therapists, and families to implement and adapt individual learning plans.
- Positive Environment: Foster a respectful, inclusive, and encouraging atmosphere where students feel safe and motivated to learn.
- Progress Monitoring: Keep accurate records of student progress and contribute to regular reviews and planning meetings.
Requirements
- Experience: Previous experience supporting young people with learning difficulties, particularly in a post-16 or transitional setting.
- Empathy: A genuine passion for helping others, with a patient and understanding approach.
- Communication: Strong interpersonal skills to engage effectively with students, families, and colleagues.
- Team Spirit: A collaborative mindset and the ability to contribute positively to a team-focused environment.
A valid UK driving licence and a willingness to drive are essential for this role.
Qualifications: Relevant qualifications or training in education, special needs, or support work are desirable.
Why You'll Love Working with Us
- Immediate Start: Hit the ground running with an immediate start, or discuss flexible start dates with us.
- Supportive Culture: Be part of a team that values your input and supports your professional growth.
- Specialist Facilities: Work in a setting equipped with resources designed to support post-16 learners.
- Meaningful Impact: Help students gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive beyond school.
Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.
If you’re ready to make a lasting impact as an Over 16 Teaching Assistant in Poole, click ‘apply now’ to submit your full and up-to-date CV. One of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.
Join us and help young adults take the next step toward independence and success.
Over 16 Teaching Assistant employer: GSL Education - Bournemouth
Contact Detail:
GSL Education - Bournemouth Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Over 16 Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of young adults with learning difficulties. Research the types of support they require and think about how your experiences align with these needs. This will help you articulate your passion and understanding during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with special educational needs. Attend local workshops or seminars to meet people and gain insights into best practices, which can be beneficial when discussing your approach in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully supported individuals or groups. Think of examples that showcase your empathy, communication skills, and ability to foster a positive environment, as these are key qualities for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your commitment to professional development by mentioning any relevant training or qualifications you have. If you don’t have formal qualifications, consider enrolling in short courses related to special needs education to demonstrate your dedication to the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Over 16 Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Over 16 Teaching Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience you have working with young people, especially those with learning difficulties. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to support their development and independence.
Show Your Passion: Express your genuine passion for helping young adults achieve success in your application. Share personal anecdotes or motivations that illustrate why you are committed to this field and how you can make a positive impact.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at GSL Education - Bournemouth
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with young adults, especially those with learning difficulties. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to empowering students and helping them achieve independence.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Understanding
Prepare to discuss how you approach supporting students with diverse needs. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your empathetic nature and how you adapt your support to meet individual requirements.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be ready to talk about any previous roles you've had that involved working with young people, particularly in a post-16 or transitional setting. Discuss specific skills you taught or challenges you overcame to show your capability in this role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to education and support for students with special educational needs. This shows your interest in their methods and your desire to contribute positively to their team.
