At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with SEMH needs in a nurturing and creative learning environment.
- Company: Waltham Gateway Academy, a new and inclusive school focused on trauma-informed education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing professional development, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Join a growing team dedicated to creating a safe and engaging learning space.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and help them thrive academically and emotionally.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, especially those with additional needs, and a passion for inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 20237 - 20237 £ per year.
Waltham Gateway Academy opened in September 2025. Currently, there are 40 children on roll; there will be approximately 65 in September 2026 and we will eventually provide for up to 210 pupils, from Reception to Year 6. The academy also includes a Resource Specialist Provision (RSP), catering for up to 12 children from across North East Lincolnshire who have identified Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. We are seeking an exceptional individual to join our team at Waltham Gateway Academy as a teaching assistant in the RSP.
The RSP currently has a lead teacher and two teaching assistants and caters for 6 children. The number of children will grow to 9 from September 2026 and therefore, we are seeking to increase our team. The RSP teaching assistants will work closely with the RSP Teacher, alongside the SENDCO, in collaborating with staff across the Academy to ensure a broad, balanced and specialist curriculum is provided for our children accessing the RSP.
We are looking for experienced teaching assistants who demonstrate a strong desire to ensure children, who have often had negative experiences of education, are able to develop their skills and confidence, using adaptive, personalised teaching strategies. It is crucial that the RSP teaching assistants support the teacher and work with colleagues to create a nurturing and empathic approach, prioritising child-centred relational approaches.
The successful candidates will hold ambitious expectations for all students with additional and special educational needs and disabilities and embed a culture where all can access the curriculum and learn effectively. Waltham Gateway Academy is working closely with Trauma Informed Schools UK to support the development of our vision, values and curriculum. It is essential that the successful candidates champion our principles of trauma awareness and relational learning, building strong, trusting relationships with our children to create a safe learning environment.
An ability to be creative and adaptable is crucial. Experience of working with children across key stages is desirable. Experience of working with children with additional needs, including those with SEMH, is vital and the candidates will have good knowledge and a practical understanding of the SEND Code of Practice. Candidates should demonstrate in their application, where they have any specialist knowledge or are trained in any specific areas, relevant to this position.
A commitment to ensuring the new academies are fully inclusive schools and the RSPs are part of the academy and not an addition, is essential. The RSP teaching assistants will have significant impact upon the lives and opportunities experienced by the young people of North East Lincolnshire.
A full package of on-going CPD is in place to support our staff team as part of the whole school relational approach. This will include regular supervision. The role will start in September 2026.
Applications should be submitted via My New Term by 9.00am on Wednesday 17 June 2026. The personal statement should include:
- Why you are interested in this role and your vision for the Academy
- The personal qualities and experience that you will bring to the role
- The contribution you can make to the continued success of the Trust
Candidates will be selected for interview and contacted by Friday 19 June 2026. Interviews will take place w/b Monday 22 June 2026.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As part of this process, all successful applicants are required to apply for an enhanced DBS disclosure. Other checks including social media will be carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education legislation.
Key Dates:
- Applications Close – 9.00am Wednesday 17 June 2026.
- Shortlisting for the post – Thursday 18 June 2026 with candidates informed on Friday 19 June 2026.
- Interview Dates: w/b Monday 22 June 2026.
If you require any specific arrangements to be in place for your interview, please notify us of this in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in its academies. In line with our safer recruitment practices and statutory guidance on Keeping Children Safe in Education, all applicants must be willing to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Additional pre-employment checks will also be carried out including online/social media check, satisfactory references and any other appropriate checks necessary in order to assess the suitability to work with children.
Trauma-Informed RSP Teaching Assistant employer: Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust
Waltham Gateway Academy is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong commitment to professional development, our team benefits from ongoing training and support, particularly in trauma-informed practices, ensuring that every teaching assistant can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with additional needs. Located in North East Lincolnshire, we offer a collaborative work culture where creativity and adaptability are valued, making it an ideal place for passionate educators to thrive.
Contact Details:
Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trauma-Informed RSP Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the academy's values and mission. When you walk into that interview, show us how your personal approach aligns with our trauma-informed principles. It’s all about building those strong, trusting relationships!
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to share specific examples from your experience. We want to hear about times you've successfully supported children with SEMH needs or adapted your teaching strategies. Real stories make a lasting impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just focus on your qualifications; let your passion shine through! Talk about why you care about inclusive education and how you can contribute to creating a nurturing environment for our students.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, remember to ask questions during your interview. Show us you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team and the growth of Waltham Gateway Academy. It’s a two-way street, after all!
We think you need these skills to ace Trauma-Informed RSP Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your personal statement, let us know why you're excited about the role of RSP Teaching Assistant. Share your vision for the academy and how you can contribute to creating a nurturing environment for our students.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any experience you have working with children, especially those with SEMH needs. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission to support children who have faced challenges in their education.
Be Authentic:We love genuine candidates! Don’t just list your qualifications; share personal qualities that make you a great fit for our team. Tell us about your approach to building trusting relationships with children and how you adapt your teaching strategies.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application via My New Term by the deadline. It’s super important to follow the application process as outlined, so we can get to know you better and consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust
✨Know Your Trauma-Informed Practices
Make sure you understand the principles of trauma-informed education. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these practices in your role as a teaching assistant, especially in creating a safe and nurturing environment for children with SEMH needs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences working with children, particularly those with additional needs. Highlight how you've used adaptive teaching strategies to support their learning and development.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with the RSP Teacher and SENDCO, be prepared to talk about your teamwork skills. Share instances where you've successfully collaborated with colleagues to enhance student outcomes.
✨Express Your Vision for the Academy
In your personal statement and during the interview, articulate your vision for the academy and how you plan to contribute to its inclusive culture. Show that you’re aligned with their values and committed to making a positive impact on students' lives.
