At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with additional needs in their learning and emotional development.
- Company: Parley First School, dedicated to nurturing every child's potential.
- Benefits: Meaningful work, supportive team environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Join a passionate team committed to fostering independence and confidence in every child.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and help them thrive.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, especially those with additional needs, is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Do you believe that the right support, at the right moment, can help a child feel safe, understood, and ready to learn? Do you want a role where progress may look different for every pupil – but every step forward truly matters? If so, Parley First School would love to hear from you. We are looking for a Specialist Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team in The Pod, our Specialist Resource Base. This role is ideal for someone with a genuine commitment to supporting children with additional and often complex needs, including autism, speech and language needs, and school-based anxiety.
At Parley, Specialist Teaching Assistants play a vital role in helping pupils feel secure, valued, and capable. You will support children both emotionally and academically, often working closely with individuals or small groups to help them access learning and develop independence.
What you’ll do:
- Work closely with the Specialist Teacher to deliver personalised learning programmes for pupils with EHCPs and additional needs
- Support pupils one-to-one and in small groups, helping them engage with learning and develop key life skills
- Use a calm, relational approach to help pupils regulate their emotions and feel safe
- Promote independence, confidence, and self-esteem in every child
- Monitor progress and share insights with teachers to support next steps in learning
- Provide personal care when required, ensuring dignity, safety, and compassion at all times
Who you are:
- A patient, empathetic, and resilient individual who understands the importance of relationships
- Experience of working with children, particularly those with additional needs, is essential.
- Someone who can remain calm under pressure and respond sensitively to pupils’ needs
- A strong communicator who works well as part of a team and with families
- Flexible, positive, and able to adapt to the varied demands of a specialist setting
- Committed to supporting children with SEND and helping them achieve their individual goals
Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant employer: Parley First School
Parley First School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of both its students and staff. With a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture, employees are encouraged to grow professionally through ongoing training and collaboration with dedicated colleagues. Located in a nurturing environment, the school offers unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with additional needs, ensuring that every step forward is celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with children with additional needs. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting children with SEND. Think about specific examples from your experience that showcase your patience and empathy – these qualities are key in this role!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your enthusiasm for helping children shine through. Share your insights on how you can contribute to their learning and emotional well-being.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who want to make a difference. Your application will stand out if you show us how you align with our values and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your genuine commitment to supporting children with additional needs. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight why this role matters to you and how you can make a difference.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the job description. Highlight your experience working with children with autism, speech and language needs, or school-based anxiety.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use simple language to convey your thoughts effectively, ensuring we can easily understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Parley First School
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with additional needs, especially autism and speech and language challenges. Research Parley First School and their approach to supporting these pupils, so you can speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their values.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, share examples that highlight your patience and understanding. Talk about times when you've successfully supported children emotionally or academically, and how you’ve built trusting relationships with them. This will demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Prepare for situational questions where you might need to describe how you'd handle specific challenges, like helping a child who is anxious or struggling to engage. Think through your calm, relational approach and be ready to explain how you would promote independence and self-esteem in those moments.
✨Team Player Vibes
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with teachers and families. Share experiences where teamwork has led to positive outcomes for children. This shows that you understand the importance of communication and collaboration in a specialist setting.
