At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a child with additional needs in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: St Helen’s Primary School, a welcoming and supportive community.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with training opportunities and a friendly team.
- Other info: Potential for full-time employment after the apprenticeship.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's educational journey every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with children and a passion for inclusion are essential.
The predicted salary is between 16640 - 16640 £ per year.
We are seeking a caring, patient and dedicated 1:1 Teaching Assistant to support a child with additional needs. The successful candidate will work closely with the class teacher and SENCo to ensure the child can access the curriculum, communicate effectively, and feel safe, supported and included within the school environment. The post is full time and linked to a named child.
What We Offer
- A supportive and welcoming school environment
- A happy and supportive team
- A village location
- Opportunities for training and professional development (including SEND-specific training)
- The chance to make a meaningful difference in a child’s educational journey
Apprenticeship Overview:
- Salary: £8.00 an hour, Automatic pay increase after one year on programme for 19+ year olds
- Working Week: Monday to Friday – 8.45am – 15.20pm (30 minutes lunch break)
- Hours: 75 hours per week
- Duration: 18 months
- Level 3 Teaching Assistant Online training supported by our dedicated tutor
- Location: Brewhouse Hill, Wheathampstead, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 8AN
Main Duties Key Responsibilities
- Provide individualised 1:1 support to a non-verbal pupil throughout the school day
- Support the pupil’s communication needs
- Assist in implementing personalised learning plans and Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets
- Promote the child’s engagement, independence and social interaction within the classroom and during unstructured times (e.g. break and lunch)
- Work collaboratively with the class teacher, SENCo, external professionals and parents/carers to support the pupil’s progress
- Help manage and support sensory and behavioural needs using agreed strategies
- Adapt learning materials and activities to ensure they are accessible and meaningful
- Support with personal care, where required (training will be provided)
- Record and report on the pupil’s progress, behaviour and wellbeing
- Ensure a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment always
Person Specification
Essential:
- Experience working with children, ideally in a school or early years setting
- Experience supporting children with SEND, particularly non-verbal communication needs or autism
- A calm, patient and empathetic approach
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to build a trusting, supportive relationship with a child with additional needs
- Commitment to inclusion and safeguarding
Desirable:
- Knowledge of communication strategies such as Makaton, PECS, or AAC
- Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or equivalent)
- Experience working with external professionals (e.g. speech and language therapists)
What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?
The successful candidate will obtain a Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship standard qualification. Each apprentice will have their own dedicated tutor who will conduct monthly remote tutorials and reviews, providing continuous support throughout the apprenticeship program. Depending on the apprentice’s needs, the frequency of these sessions may vary.
What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?
Potential full-time employment for the right candidate upon successful completion of the apprenticeship. Pre-employment checks. Please be aware that upon a successful offer of employment, the company completes digitalised right-to-work checks and DBS applications via an external provider - 'Matrix Screening'. The company also completes an internal online social media search, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.
Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship SEND employer: LMP Group
St Helen’s Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where dedicated individuals can make a meaningful impact on a child's educational journey. With a supportive team and opportunities for professional development, including SEND-specific training, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their roles. Located in the picturesque village of Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire, the school fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among staff, making it an ideal place for those passionate about education and supporting children with additional needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship SEND
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on St Helen’s Primary School. Check out their website and social media to understand their values and culture. 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! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. Focus on common questions for teaching assistants, especially around supporting children with SEND. The more comfortable you are speaking about your experiences, the better you'll come across in the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've supported children with additional needs in the past. Whether it’s using communication strategies like Makaton or adapting learning materials, let them see your dedication to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email. It’s a great way to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship SEND
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with additional needs shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with children, especially those with SEND. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use simple language and avoid jargon. We appreciate straightforward communication, just like you’d use when talking to a child or their parents.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity at St Helen’s Primary School.
How to prepare for a job interview at LMP Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Level 3 Teaching Assistant, especially in supporting children with SEND. Familiarise yourself with communication strategies like Makaton or PECS, as these could come up during your chat.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, demonstrate your calm and patient approach. Share examples from your experience where you've successfully supported children with additional needs. This will show that you can build trusting relationships, which is key for this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer about the school environment and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
Let your personality shine through! The school is looking for someone who can connect with a child on a personal level, so being authentic will help them see how you might fit into their team and support the pupil effectively.
