At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with SEMH needs in a nurturing classroom environment.
- Company: Marlfields Primary, part of the Children First Learning Partnership.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, supportive team, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a small class of seven for personalised support and meaningful relationships.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN children and ideally a level 3 qualification.
The predicted salary is between 12000 - 15000 £ per year.
Marlfields Primary is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and caring SEN teaching assistant to work in our Bluebell class. This is a temporary part-time role working to support children with SEMH needs. The working hours are 18 hours a week, term time plus insets.
Our school is under dynamic new leadership, with a newly formed senior leadership team and proud membership of the Children First Learning Partnership. We offer extensive grounds, including forest school and an allotment, and a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore, express and thrive. Bluebell Class is a place where every child feels included, valued and connected. Our ethos Belong, Believe, Achieve is at the heart of everything we do. We build meaningful relationships, foster a sense of belonging, and celebrate diversity in a warm, structured and supportive setting.
Our Bluebell class is entering an exciting new chapter, and we’re looking for someone exceptional to join us as a SEN teaching assistant, for a special and rewarding role. With just seven children, this specialist setting offers the chance to build deep, trusting relationships and provide truly individualised support for pupils with SEMH needs.
Qualifications & Experience
- You must be experienced in working with children with SEN in a school setting and would ideally hold a level 3 qualification or equivalent.
Key Skills and Attributes
- Your ability to work as part of a very enthusiastic team
- Commitment, flexibility and energy
- Excellent behavioural management skills
- A knowledge of the Primary school curriculum and assessment
- A drive to undertake suitable training for your own professional development
The closing date for this post will be Midday on Wednesday 10th June and interviews will take place week commencing Monday 15th June 2026. Visits to the school are highly recommended. Please contact the school office to make an appointment on admin@marlfields.cheshire.sch.uk or 01260 633120.
This position is subject to a criminal records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB) which will require you to disclose details of all unspent and unfiltered spent reprimands, formal warnings, cautions and convictions as part of the recruitment process. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a self‑declaration of their criminal record and other relevant safeguarding information that may make them unsuitable to work with children. It is an offence to apply for this position if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity. This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
SEN Teaching Assistant — Small Class, SEMH Support in Congleton employer: Marlfields Primary School
Marlfields Primary is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment where staff can thrive alongside their students. With a strong commitment to professional development and a supportive team culture, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with SEMH needs. Our extensive grounds and innovative learning spaces, including a forest school and allotment, provide a unique backdrop for fostering creativity and connection within our small class setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant — Small Class, SEMH Support in Congleton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around the school grounds or check out their website. Familiarising yourself with their ethos and values will help you connect better during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for SEN support! When chatting with the interviewers, share specific examples of how you've made a difference in the lives of children with SEMH needs. We want to see that genuine enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss teamwork! Since you'll be part of an enthusiastic team, highlight your collaborative experiences. Talk about how you’ve worked with others to create a nurturing environment for children.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the Bluebell class or the school's approach to SEN. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant — Small Class, SEMH Support in Congleton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children with SEMH needs shine through in your application. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with SEN and any relevant qualifications. We’re looking for someone who fits right into our Bluebell class, so show us why you’re the perfect match!
Be Authentic:When writing your cover letter, be yourself! Share your personal experiences and what drives you to work in this field. We love genuine stories that reflect your commitment to our ethos of Belong, Believe, Achieve.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through the My New Term link provided! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our nurturing environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marlfields Primary School
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support children with these needs, as this will show your understanding and commitment to their development.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for creating an inclusive environment. Share examples of how you've fostered a sense of belonging in previous roles, and highlight your ability to build meaningful relationships with children and colleagues alike.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since you'll be working as part of a dynamic team, it's crucial to showcase your teamwork skills. Talk about experiences where you've collaborated effectively with others, and how you can contribute to the positive atmosphere in the Bluebell class.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about the school's approach to SEMH support or how they measure success in the classroom. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged with the role and the school’s ethos.
