At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young learners with additional needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: The Old School Henstead, a caring rural preparatory school.
- Benefits: 18 weeks annual leave, professional development, and free school lunch.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with small class sizes and ongoing training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND and a passion for early years education.
The predicted salary is between 12000 - 15000 € per year.
The Old School Henstead, a rural preparatory school and nursery, is seeking a skilled and compassionate Teaching Assistant to lead a very small group of pupils with complex additional needs.
Position Summary
You will work as part of the EYFS department, supported by the Head of EYFS and two Teaching Assistants, closely with the school SENCo to provide guidance on EHCP provision, assessment and multi‑agency liaison. The role requires SEND experience and a high expectation for all learners.
Key Responsibilities
- Teaching & Provision
- Plan and deliver an adapted EYFS curriculum aligned to EHCP outcomes with support from the school SENCo
- Break long‑term targets into measurable short‑term steps
- Use structured, visual and multi‑sensory approaches
- Implement strategies such as Intensive Interaction, Attention Autism and visual communication systems
- Promote early communication and functional independence
- SEND & Safeguarding
- Lead implementation of EHCP Section F provision
- Monitor and evidence progress
- Contribute to Annual Reviews and professional meetings
- Maintain high supervision for pupils with limited danger awareness
- Be aware of health and safety issues and procedures, including all safeguarding policies, and implement school policy to ensure that these are dealt with promptly
- Undertake daily health and safety checks in the learning spaces and report any areas for attention to the school maintenance team
- Personal Care
- Support developmentally appropriate self‑care development for EYFS pupils
- Participate in nappy changing and intimate care, following safeguarding procedures
- Ensure consistent curriculum approaches, communication and reporting
- Liaise with SENCo, Head of EYFS and school leadership
- Parent Partnership
- Maintain strong home‑school communication
- Provide clear progress updates
Qualifications – Essential Criteria
- Experience supporting SEND pupils
- Confident using visual communication systems (PECS, Makaton, visual timetables) or willingness to undertake training
- Willingness to undertake intimate care and nappy changing
- Calm, resilient and solution‑focused
Qualifications – Desirable Criteria
- Experience in a specialist or resource‑based setting
- Strong understanding of Autism and communication differences
- Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework
- Experience using Makaton for communication
- Understanding of the Sensory Engagement Model
- Experience supporting intimate needs and independence development
- Experience teaching or supporting pupils of KS1 age
- Experience working with EYFS‑aged children
- Full and relevant EYFS qualification at Level 3 or higher
- Experience planning and delivering effective, child‑centered, continuous and enhanced provision (desired)
- Experience using online learning journals
- Recent Paediatric First Aid Certificate
Additional Requirements
- Can work both independently and as part of a team
- Can follow instructions accurately and effectively
- Can pass an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
Working Hours
The EYFS department currently operates during term time only (34 weeks a year + 5 days staff training). We are looking for someone to work Thursdays and Fridays, 8.15 am to 4.10 pm each day. We would consider 3 days per week for the right candidate.
Location
The Old School Henstead Early Years Department
Benefits
- Very small class size
- Dedicated Teaching Assistants
- Ongoing SENCo support
- Professional development opportunities
- Nest pension plan
- 18 weeks of annual leave (to be taken during school holidays)
- On-site parking and free school lunch
Safeguarding
The Old School Henstead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Enhanced DBS and references required.
Teaching Assistant (SEND) - Part Time employer: Independent Schools Association (ISA)
The Old School Henstead is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment for both staff and pupils. With a strong commitment to professional development, small class sizes, and dedicated support from the SENCo, employees can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with complex needs. Located in a picturesque rural setting, the school provides a supportive work culture, generous annual leave, and a focus on safeguarding, ensuring that all staff feel valued and empowered.
Contact Detail:
Independent Schools Association (ISA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (SEND) - Part Time
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about openings before they're even advertised, and a personal recommendation can really give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to SEND. Not only will this boost your skills, but it’s also a great way to meet potential employers and show them your passion for supporting children with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! When you find a role that excites you, reach out directly to the school or organisation. A quick email expressing your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job postings! We regularly update our listings, and applying through us means you’ll be in the loop for any new opportunities that match your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (SEND) - Part Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND pupils. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of our EYFS department, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant experience!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about supporting learners with complex needs, so share any personal stories or experiences that fuel your commitment.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out and are easy to read. Bullet points can be your best friend here!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the position there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Independent Schools Association (ISA)
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) before the interview. Familiarise yourself with key terms like EHCP, PECS, and Makaton, as well as strategies like Intensive Interaction and Attention Autism. This will show that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences working with SEND pupils. Think about how you've adapted teaching methods or supported individual needs in previous roles. This will help demonstrate your capability and understanding of the challenges and rewards of working in this field.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle certain situations, especially regarding safeguarding and personal care. Prepare some thoughtful responses that reflect your calm, resilient, and solution-focused approach. This will highlight your ability to think on your feet and prioritise the safety and well-being of the children.
✨Engage with the Team
Since you'll be working closely with the Head of EYFS and other Teaching Assistants, show your enthusiasm for teamwork during the interview. Discuss how you value collaboration and communication in a school setting. This will indicate that you're not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a supportive environment.
