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 and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Potential for full-time employment after the apprenticeship.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's educational journey and personal growth.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, especially those with SEND, is essential.
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 is 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 min 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
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individualised 1:1 support to a non-verbal pupil throughout the school day
- Support the pupil’s communication needs and 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 at all times
Essential Person Specification
- 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 Qualifications and Skills
- 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)
- GCSE English – Grade A*–C (or Level 2 equivalent) (desirable)
- GCSE Maths – Grade A*–C (or Level 2 equivalent) (desirable)
Career Progression
Potential full-time employment for the right candidate upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
Benefits
Apprenticeship standard qualification with a dedicated tutor providing monthly remote tutorials and reviews. Continuous support throughout the apprenticeship programme.
Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship SEND in Little Amwell employer: LMP Group
St Helen’s Primary School is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and welcoming environment where dedicated staff can thrive. Located in the picturesque village of Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire, we provide opportunities for professional development, including SEND-specific training, allowing our team to make a meaningful difference in a child's educational journey. Join us to be part of a happy team that values inclusion and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship SEND in Little Amwell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former teaching assistants, especially those who have worked with SEND. They can give you insider tips and might even know about job openings before they're advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experiences relate to supporting children with additional needs. We want you to show off your calm, patient approach and your commitment to inclusion!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your skills! If you have experience with communication strategies like Makaton or PECS, make sure to highlight that in conversations. It’s all about showing how you can make a difference in a child’s educational journey.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to join our supportive team at St Helen’s Primary School.
We think you need these skills to ace Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship SEND in Little Amwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with additional needs shine through. We want to see how much you 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!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to understand.
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.
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 additional needs. Familiarise yourself with key terms like EHCP and communication strategies such as Makaton or PECS. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the position.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have working with children, particularly those with SEND. Think of specific examples where you've made a difference, whether it was through adapting learning materials or supporting a child's communication needs. Real-life stories resonate well!
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
In this role, a calm and patient approach is crucial. During the interview, convey your understanding of the challenges faced by children with additional needs. Share how you would create a nurturing environment and build trust with the child you'll be supporting.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to inclusion, training opportunities, or how they support their teaching assistants. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.
