At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers in delivering engaging lessons and assist students with diverse needs.
- Company: Join Nexus Multi-Academy Trust, dedicated to nurturing vulnerable children and fostering their potential.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, wellbeing support, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: This role is part-time, term-time only, perfect for students seeking meaningful work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and creative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in mainstream or special needs education is preferred; empathy and teamwork are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20330 - 22020 £ per year.
Join the Nexus team as a Teaching Assistant - Level 2 - Lotus Academy
Position: Teaching Assistant (Level 2)
Hours: 32.5 hours
Working hours are:
Monday 08:00 – 16:00
Tuesday to Thursday 08:00 – 15:00
Friday 08:00 – 13:30
Salary: NJC 07-12 FTE £27,275 - £29,542, Actual Salary £21,009.12 - £22,755.32 - Inclusive of the provisional 3.3% cost of living pay award
School and Location: Lotus Academy, Lindsay Road, Sheffield S5 7WE
Contract type: Full Time (Term Time Only) / Permanent
Closing date: 10th July 2026
Interview Date: 15th July 2026
About our School
Lotus Academy, located in north Sheffield, is a specialist state‑funded school for pupils aged 6–16 with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care Plan. The school opened in September 2024 and is part of the Nexus Multi Academy Trust, providing high‑quality, inclusive education for up to 100 pupils.
At Lotus Academy, our vision is to create a safe, relational and aspirational environment where every pupil is understood, valued and equipped to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. We believe that with the right relationships, structure and emotional safety, every child can grow, learn and succeed.
- Safety – Emotional and physical safety underpin every decision we make.
- Relationships First – Positive, consistent, trusting relationships are at the heart of our practice.
- Belonging – We ensure every pupil feels seen, heard and valued within our community.
- Resilience & Growth – We nurture self‑regulation, confidence, and independence through trauma‑informed approaches.
- Ambition – We maintain high aspirations for every learner, recognising their strengths and celebrating progress in all forms.
As a specialist SEMH provision, we operate through a trauma‑informed, relational approach embedded across classrooms, routines and leadership behaviours. Small class sizes, personalised learning pathways, and a strong emphasis on emotional regulation ensure pupils receive the support they need to thrive. Our staff team works collaboratively with families, external professionals, and trust partners to provide a consistent, nurturing, and forward‑thinking learning environment.
About the Trust
This is an exciting opportunity to join an award winning Multi Academy Trust and be part of a welcoming and supportive team that serves amazing children and young people. Nexus Multi Academy Trust was founded in 2016, with 19 unique SEND and mainstream academies.
We are a growing, forward thinking and innovative Trust with a shared ethos, vision and values for a personalised child centred approach. We are committed and invested in “Learning together, to be the best we can be” and it is as relatable to every employee and partner of our Trust as it is to our children, young adults and their families.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure the safety of children and young people.
- Facilitate pupils’ access to learning by responding to individual needs, including personal care and hygiene such as toileting and nappy changing.
- Support whole class lessons, group work and one‑to‑one sessions with pupils.
- Make judgements on the attainment and progress of students and help them celebrate success.
- Respond to the emotional, social and mental health needs of pupils.
Qualifications & Skills
- Experience as a Teaching Assistant in a mainstream or specialist education setting.
- Exceptional vocational skills and a real drive to make a difference in children’s lives.
- Knowledge of SEN is advantageous.
- Good interpersonal skills and ability to work within a collaborative team environment.
What You Can Expect From Us
Wellbeing – Pay – Careers and Training – Annual Leave and Flexibility
- Access to free wellbeing support resources including counselling, medical and legal advice and the option to top up to private healthcare via corporate membership of a healthcare plan.
- Access to discount schemes for savings with high street retailers, restaurants, activities and lifestyle services.
- Auto enrolment into a leading pension scheme with Teachers Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Access to extensive and tailored career pathways, CPD programmes, training and coaching giving you the opportunity to grow and develop your career.
- An induction package to help you settle in and approach your role with confidence and enthusiasm.
- The ability to contribute to and share quality practice with other professional TAs, teachers and the wider team.
- Internal opportunities across the Trust academies and to work with specialised leaders in education on nationally recognised projects.
- Flexible working policies.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Annual leave increases based on length of service plus bank holidays for support staff.
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce.
Safeguarding and Child Protection
Nexus Multi Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre‑employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
Teaching Assistant - Level 2 - Lotus Academy in Sheffield employer: Nexus Multi Academy Trust
Nexus Multi Academy Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment at Lotus Academy in Sheffield. With a strong focus on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with SEMH needs. The term-time only schedule allows for a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those passionate about education and student welfare.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - Level 2 - Lotus Academy in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the ethos and values of Lotus Academy. Understanding their commitment to empathy and togetherness will help you align your responses during any interviews or discussions, showcasing that you share their vision for supporting vulnerable children.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience you have working with children who have special educational needs (SEN). Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've used to support their emotional and social development, as this will demonstrate your capability to meet the diverse needs of the pupils at Lotus Academy.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members at Nexus Multi Academy Trust if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the school culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would contribute to a nurturing and stimulating environment. Think of examples where you've created engaging learning experiences or built strong relationships with students, as this aligns with the school's focus on providing a safe and creative atmosphere.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - Level 2 - Lotus Academy in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Teaching Assistant Level 2 position. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the needs of Lotus Academy.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect your experience in supporting children with Social Emotional and Mental Health needs. Include specific examples of how you've contributed to a nurturing environment in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your commitment to helping vulnerable children. Mention your understanding of the school's values, such as empathy and togetherness, and how you embody these in your work.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nexus Multi Academy Trust
✨Understand the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Lotus Academy's values of empathy and togetherness. Be prepared to discuss how you can embody these values in your role as a Teaching Assistant.
✨Showcase Your SEN Knowledge
Since the role involves working with children with complex Social Emotional and Mental Health needs, be ready to share your experiences and knowledge about Special Educational Needs (SEN). Highlight any specific strategies you've used to support students in the past.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
The job requires flexibility and teamwork. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with colleagues in previous roles, especially in educational settings. This will show that you're a team player who can contribute positively to the staff dynamic.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Having thoughtful questions ready shows your genuine interest in the role and the school. Consider asking about the professional development opportunities available or how the school supports its staff in managing the emotional needs of students.
