At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young adults with special educational needs in a collaborative college environment.
- Company: Join Newfriars College, a dedicated institution for students with learning difficulties.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, health plans, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community focused on transforming lives.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND and strong teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20866 - 22987 £ per year.
Join our dedicated team at our post-16 college, supporting young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Rated Good by Ofsted, with Outstanding judgements for Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development, we are proud of the high-quality education and support we provide.
We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to become part of our large, collaborative team. Working alongside teachers and colleagues, you will play a key role in supporting students with a wide range of needs, including those with more complex profiles. Experience in behaviour management and providing 1:1 support would be particularly valuable.
This role requires confidence in working with young people with SEND, a strong understanding of effective practice, and a creative, flexible approach. Excellent teamwork and communication skills are essential, as is a genuine passion for helping students thrive both in college and in the wider community through enrichment and work experience opportunities.
Newfriars College aims to transform the lives of young people through partnership, collaboration, enterprise and innovation. Our vision is to maximise opportunities within the community and provide a breadth and richness of experience that enables all our learners to reach their full potential and be part of an inclusive society. Newfriars College is an Independent Specialist Day College in North Staffordshire dedicated to supporting young people with learning difficulties and disabilities aged 16–25.
We provide specialist resources and facilities for all our learners and have an excellent support network within the local area. This provides the college with many opportunities including transition routes into the wider community, employment and supported work experience, independent living and specialist support from highly skilled multi-agency professionals and therapists. Learning in the community and vocational education is extremely important and we are eager to successfully prepare our young people for adulthood.
Our College works in partnership with Shaw Education Trust who believe that “every young person can achieve great things, whatever their abilities and whatever their background”. We are driven by our vision for a society in which young people with disabilities are able to realise their potential and are given the skills, support and assurance to have a better future.
At Newfriars School, we believe every role holds the power to transform a life. Whether you’re supporting behind the scenes, inspiring in the classroom, or leading with vision, you’ll be part of something truly special.
Newfriars School works in partnership with Shaw Education Trust, giving our staff access to the same high-quality professional development opportunities, networks, and staff benefits while remaining proud employees of Newfriars School. The mission is to unlock opportunity for every young person—whatever their background, ability, or starting point. Together with our partners, we are committed to providing exceptional education and support that enables every pupil to thrive.
Our people are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to their growth. Through high-quality training, apprenticeships, talent acceleration, and research opportunities, we empower our staff to develop as skilled, confident professionals. We champion wellbeing, value every voice, and foster a culture where you feel supported, motivated, and inspired to make a real difference.
By working in partnership with Shaw Education Trust, you will benefit from being part of a wider collaborative network of schools, where shared expertise and professional community fuel success. This partnership strengthens the support available to our staff while allowing Newfriars School to maintain its unique identity and community focus.
Shaw Education Trust offer the following employee benefits with your Teaching or Support Staff employment:
- An excellent Local Government Pension Scheme (Support Staff) / Teachers Pension (Teaching Staff)
- Generous holiday entitlement from your first day of employment (37 days holiday rising to 39 days after 5 years’ service including Bank Holidays)
- Access to Medicash Health & Wellbeing Plan: Enjoy health services designed to support your well-being.
- Free DiscountForTeachers Scheme for all staff (Support and Teaching), Exclusive discounts to save money with a wide selection of discounts and exclusive offers from hundreds of the biggest brands.
- Free Eye Tests
- Cycle to work scheme
- Access to our Institute of Education and fantastic opportunities to help you grow, contribute and flourish in your role and in the Trust
Working hours: 32.5 hours per week, Term Time only plus 5 inset days (working 39 weeks).
Newfriars College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This position is subject to robust vetting procedures, including an online search for all shortlisted candidates, in line with our Trust’s commitment to safer recruitment.
Shaw Education Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer. We are fully committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection processes promote equality, diversity, and inclusion at every stage.
In accordance with our safer recruitment policy CVs alone will not be accepted. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date as we review applications on an ongoing basis and interviews may be arranged as suitable candidates are identified, therefore, we encourage early applications.
Successful candidates will be subject to a fully Enhanced DBS check along with other relevant employment checks.
Teaching Assistant in Stoke-on-Trent employer: Newfriars College
At Newfriars College, located in Stoke-on-Trent, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to transforming the lives of young adults with special educational needs and disabilities. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth through high-quality training and development opportunities, while our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in generous benefits such as a robust pension scheme, ample holiday entitlement, and access to health and wellbeing resources. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the community and supporting our students to thrive in their journey towards independence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant in Stoke-on-Trent
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the college and its values! Research Newfriars College and Shaw Education Trust to understand their mission and how you can contribute. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role at the college. Personal connections can make a big difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to supporting students with SEND. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in behaviour management and teamwork.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant in Stoke-on-Trent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting young people with SEND shine through. We want to see your genuine passion for helping students thrive and how you can contribute to our mission at Newfriars College.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in behaviour management or providing 1:1 support. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the role of a Teaching Assistant.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
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 helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newfriars College
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Teaching Assistant, especially in a SEND context. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students and the strategies used to support them. This will show your genuine interest and readiness to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss any relevant experience you have, particularly in behaviour management or providing 1:1 support. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate how you've successfully helped students thrive, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, think of examples where you've collaborated effectively with others. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve worked alongside teachers and colleagues to create a positive learning environment.
✨Passion for Education
Let your passion for helping young people shine through during the interview. Share why you want to work in education, particularly with SEND students, and how you believe you can make a difference in their lives. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
