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- Tasks: Support teachers and students in a vibrant learning environment, ensuring everyone thrives.
- Company: Join Manor House School, part of Acorn Education, a leader in specialist education for vulnerable youth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, life assurance, pension options, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while enjoying a supportive and rewarding workplace culture.
- Qualifications: GCSE C in Maths and English required; SEN experience is a plus.
- Other info: Receive a £500 welcome bonus and access to flexible benefits tailored to your needs.
The predicted salary is between 19300 - 21800 £ per year.
Overview
Full Job Description Work Smarter. Live Better. Join the 4-Day Working Week! Job Title: SEN Teaching Assistant Location: Manor House School, Slinfold, Horsham, RH13 0QX Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday Salary: Up to £24,000 per annum depending on experience (not pro rata) Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only Start: February 2026 UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay. Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG!
About the Role
As an SEN Teaching Assistant you’ll play a vital role in helping our pupils thrive. This is more than a support role — it’s your chance to make a real, lasting difference in the lives of young people. You will:
- Support pupils individually and in groups, helping them develop literacy, numeracy, communication, and social skills
- Assist with planning and delivering engaging lessons and learning activities
- Implement positive behaviour strategies and maintain a calm, encouraging classroom atmosphere
- Prepare classroom resources and support enriching trips and school activities
- Maintain accurate records of pupil progress and behaviour
- Work closely with teachers, therapy staff, and pastoral teams
- Supervise pupils during break and lunch periods
About You
We’re looking for someone who is patient, resilient and passionate about supporting young people:
- Grade C (or equivalent) in English and Maths
- A calm, consistent and nurturing approach
- A strong team player with excellent communication skills
- A genuine commitment to helping pupils overcome barriers and succeed
About Us
Manor House School is an independent co-educational school for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. We provide a small, supportive environment where personalised learning helps pupils rebuild confidence and engage with education. Our dedicated staff foster positive relationships, emotional wellbeing, and a calm, nurturing atmosphere. Through tailored support and a broad curriculum, we empower pupils to achieve success and prepare for life beyond school. Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact. We are proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista) including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
- Subject to successful probation. Not a contractual benefit
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
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Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Understanding their challenges and how to support them will not only enhance your application but also prepare you for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends in education, particularly around the 4-Day Working Week. Being able to discuss how this model can benefit both staff and students during your interview will show that you're aligned with the school's innovative approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with vulnerable pupils. This can provide you with insights and potentially valuable references that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. Highlighting any relevant training or experiences will demonstrate your commitment to creating a safe learning environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in supporting students and managing classroom environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for education and your understanding of the role. Mention your willingness to undertake training and your commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as GCSEs in Maths and English or equivalent. If you have additional training or certifications related to SEN or safeguarding, be sure to include those as well.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: In your application, express your excitement about the opportunity to work in a supportive environment like Manor House School. Mention how the 4-Day Working Week aligns with your values regarding work/life balance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the specific tasks mentioned, such as supporting students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and assisting in classroom management.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for working with children and contributing to their learning and development. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to education and how you can positively impact students' lives.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and approach to handling various situations in the classroom. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully supported students or managed challenging behaviours.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll be working closely with teachers and other staff members. Be ready to discuss your ability to collaborate effectively within a team, share examples of successful teamwork, and demonstrate your understanding of the importance of communication in a school environment.
