At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEND in a nurturing environment and help them thrive.
- Company: St Cecilia's Roman Catholic High School, a supportive community-focused school.
- Benefits: Comprehensive wellbeing package, including counselling and 24/7 GP access.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and student welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ level 3 or above and experience with children in education.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: St Cecilia's Roman Catholic High School, Longridge, Chapel Hill, Longridge, Preston, Lancashire, PR3 2XA
Telephone: 01772 783074
School website: www.st-cecilias.co.uk
Summary
SEND/ELSA Teaching Assistant – 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:45am to 3:15pm, term time only.
Purpose of the Role
Assist in the running of the school's Eden Room provision, providing pastoral, emotional, and behavioural support to pupils, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Work closely with teaching staff, parents, external agencies and the wider pastoral team to ensure pupils can access learning, develop positive relationships, and achieve their full potential.
Responsibilities
- Support the day‑to‑day operation of the Eden Room, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for pupils.
- Collaborate with the Pastoral team, Head of Year, and Unit Manager to support pupils with SEND across the school.
- Provide support to pupils experiencing social, emotional, mental health (SEMH) or behavioural difficulties.
- Build positive and trusting relationships with pupils to promote engagement, attendance, and wellbeing.
- Develop and implement individual support plans and pastoral interventions.
- Assist pupils in managing emotions, regulating behaviour, and developing resilience.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of pastoral support strategies and interventions.
- Work closely with the SENDCO to support pupils with SEND across the school.
- Contribute to the identification of barriers to learning and help develop appropriate support strategies.
Benefits
- Comprehensive wellbeing package including:
- Free, confidential counselling
- Financial and wellbeing coaching
- Menopause and nurse support
- 24/7 GP access
- Stress coaching and physiotherapy
- Monthly staff breakfasts
Qualifications
Essential Qualifications
- NVQ level 3 or above qualification (or equivalent)
- Level 2 or equivalent qualification in English/Literacy and Mathematics/Numeracy
Essential Experience
- Experience of working with children and young people in an educational setting.
- Experience of supporting pupils with SEND and SEMH needs.
- Experience of delivering targeted interventions.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, families and professionals.
Desirable Experience
- Relevant qualification in education, pastoral support, youth work, counselling or SEND.
- Experience of managing an inclusion, nurture or intervention provision.
- Knowledge of SEND Code of Practice and safeguarding procedures.
- Experience of working with external agencies and multi‑agency teams.
- ELSA trained or willing to be trained.
Equal Opportunities
We are an Equal Opportunities Employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community. The post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended 2013). Successful candidates will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a disclosure. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in the UK. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
SEND/ELSA TEACHING ASSISTANT 3 employer: Lancashire County Council
St Cecilia's Roman Catholic High School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for SEND/ELSA Teaching Assistants. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, including access to counselling and health support, the school fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth and development. Located in the picturesque town of Longridge, employees benefit from a close-knit community atmosphere while making a meaningful impact on the lives of students with special educational needs.
