At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs through tailored 1:1 assistance and interventions.
- Company: Lift New Rickstones, a 'Good' rated primary school with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Real Living Wage, pension scheme, health plan, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a growing SEND department in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while developing your skills in education.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent required.
The predicted salary is between 18316 - 25000 € per year.
Lift New Rickstones is graded 'Good' (November 2023) and has a state of the art building offering fantastic facilities for both students and staff. Over the last 8 years, the school has seen a huge increase in student numbers, with the number of students on roll more than doubling. The school is a popular choice in the local area, is oversubscribed, and has added another new building to meet this demand. Staff numbers have also increased and the school is proud to boast high retention rates.
Development is a priority with an extensive and successful CPD (Continuing Professional Development) programme to further develop our excellent staff. We are looking for a Teaching Assistant to join our growing SEND department, working specifically to support a named child with special educational needs. You will provide tailored 1:1 support in class, as well as individualised interventions, helping to ensure the student can access learning, develop confidence, and achieve their goals.
The successful candidate will support a student with cognition and learning needs, alongside speech, communication and language difficulties. This will also involve supporting sensory regulation and helping the student to develop positive social interactions and independence throughout the school day. The SEND department has grown significantly and is well positioned to deliver high quality support for our students. We value the skills and dedication of our teaching assistants.
To support the best outcomes for our students, we require a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent). We'll invest in your development by enrolling you in our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Programme, helping you gain the behaviours, skills and experience you need to thrive in the role.
If this advert, our website, and the job description sound of interest to you, please contact Zoe Cruci, SENDCO for an informal discussion.
Closing date: 14th June 2026
Who is Lift Schools? We're a diverse and inclusive network of schools with one clear mission; to provide an excellent education to every child - in every classroom, every day. And we do this across each of our 59 schools.
Comprehensive training: Access a wide range of developmental training to boost your career. From your pension plan to healthcare and financial support, we've got you covered. Enjoy discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and even electric vehicle incentives.
Lift Schools are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our people and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair and consistent recruitment process which is in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates. All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time and flexible working opportunities will be considered. We are a Disability Confident Employer and there is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.
Locations
General Teaching Assistant - Primary School in Essex, Witham employer: Lift New Rickstones
Lift New Rickstones is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow. With a strong focus on professional development through extensive CPD programmes, employees can enhance their skills while enjoying competitive benefits such as a well-being cash plan and LGPS pension scheme. Located in a state-of-the-art facility in Witham, Essex, the school is dedicated to providing excellent education and support for both students and staff, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Teaching Assistant - Primary School in Essex, Witham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Lift New Rickstones. Check out their website, read up on their values, and understand their approach to education. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about common interview questions for teaching assistants and prepare your responses. Use examples from your experience that highlight your skills in supporting students with special educational needs. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Talk about why you want to be a teaching assistant and how you can contribute to the SEND department. Remember, they’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but also genuinely cares about the students.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email to Zoe Cruci can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your excitement about the role!
We think you need these skills to ace General Teaching Assistant - Primary School in Essex, Witham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Teaching Assistant. We want to see how you can support our students, especially those with special educational needs.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for education and helping students shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the classroom!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out and are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lift New Rickstones
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and values, especially their commitment to inclusivity and support for students with special educational needs. This will show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and understand what they’re all about.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've supported children in the past, particularly those with learning difficulties. Highlight your experience with tailored interventions and how you’ve helped students build confidence and independence.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Come prepared with questions that demonstrate your interest in the SEND department and the school's development programmes. For instance, ask about the types of training available or how they measure the success of their teaching assistants.
✨Be Yourself
Let your personality shine through during the interview. Schools like Lift New Rickstones value authenticity and a genuine passion for helping students. Share your motivations for wanting to work in education and how you connect with children.
