At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEMH needs and help them thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Hawthorn Academy, part of The Propeller Academy Trust, focused on care and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, wellbeing days, flexible hours, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a therapeutic school culture with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE English and maths, experience with young people, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
‘Reigniting Learning, Nurture, Connect, Thrive’ Hawthorn Academy is looking for a number of caring, resilient and motivated Teaching Assistants to support our new intake of students in September 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity if you’re passionate about helping young people overcome challenges, re-engage with learning and build confidence.
Hawthorn Academy is part of The Propeller Academy Trust and provides a nurturing, trauma-informed environment for pupils aged 11-16 with SEMH needs. We are a caring community built on trust, respect, and understanding. Our staff are dedicated, compassionate and committed to helping every young person grow emotionally, socially and academically. We offer a supportive, highly resourced setting where you can develop professionally and make a real impact.
What we Offer
- Competitive salary + £729 Fringe Allowance
- Full induction programme and ongoing SEMH and trauma informed training
- Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
- Flexible working options (part-time or job share considered)
- Local Government Pension (LGPS)
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Refer-a-friend scheme (earn up to £500)
- Supportive, highly skilled staff team and therapeutic school culture
About the Role
- Working pattern: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 08:20 – 14:45 and Weds 08:20-15:40. We support flexible working and will consider part-time hours, as long as availability includes the beginning and end of each working day, which are essential for this role.
- Support pupils with SEMH needs in lessons, small groups and 1:1
- Build positive, trusting relationships with young people
- Use trauma-informed and restorative approaches to promote positive behaviour
- Support learning in subjects such as English, maths, PE, life skills and vocational areas
- Help pupils develop emotional regulation, independence and confidence
- Work closely with teachers, therapists and families
About you
- GCSE English and maths (Grade 4/C or equivalent)
- Experience supporting children or young people (school, care, youth work etc.)
- Calm, patient, emotionally resilient and able to be a consistent, positive role model.
- A strong team player with excellent communication skills
- Experience with SEMH or secondary-aged pupils (desirable but not essential)
How to Apply
To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided. Early applications are strongly encouraged. To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the School Business Manager, Gemma Wheatman on 0118 359 2449.
Teaching Assistant (Pastoral) in Bracknell employer: Hawthorn Academy
Hawthorn Academy is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for both staff and students. With a strong emphasis on professional development, competitive benefits, and a compassionate team culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people with SEMH needs. Located within The Propeller Academy Trust, this role offers the unique opportunity to work collaboratively in a trauma-informed setting that prioritises emotional and academic growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (Pastoral) in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Hawthorn Academy and The Propeller Academy Trust. Understanding their values and how they support students with SEMH needs will help you connect better during your conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your storytelling! Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've supported young people or dealt with challenging situations. We want to hear how you’ve made a difference, so be ready to share those stories!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for nurturing! During your interview, express why you’re passionate about helping young people overcome challenges. Let your enthusiasm shine through; it’s a key part of what makes a great Teaching Assistant.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the team. This shows you’re genuinely interested and helps you figure out if this is the right fit for you. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (Pastoral) in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about helping them overcome challenges and thrive in their learning journey.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with children or young people, especially in a supportive role. We’re looking for those who can connect with our students, so share specific examples that showcase your skills.
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We value authenticity and want to know the real you. Use your own voice in your application to help us understand how you would fit into our caring community.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply online via our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to join our team at Hawthorn Academy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorn Academy
✨Know the Academy's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand Hawthorn Academy's mission of 'Reigniting Learning, Nurture, Connect, Thrive'. Familiarise yourself with their approach to supporting students with SEMH needs. This will help you align your answers with their values and show that you're genuinely interested in their community.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children or young people, especially in settings that require patience and resilience. Think of specific examples where you've made a positive impact, whether in a school, care, or youth work environment. This will demonstrate your capability to support students effectively.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll be part of a team that includes teachers, therapists, and families. Highlight your teamwork skills and provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Good communication is key, so be prepared to discuss how you build trusting relationships with both students and colleagues.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle challenging situations, particularly those involving emotional regulation and behaviour management. Think about how you would apply trauma-informed and restorative approaches in real-life scenarios. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
