At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and mentor one pupil or a small group, ensuring their learning and wellbeing.
- Company: Join Selwyn Hall School, a new SEN school dedicated to improving lives of young people with SEMH difficulties.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, company pension, life assurance, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Immediate start available; DBS check required, cost covered by the school.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in vulnerable children's lives while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: A-level education or equivalent, GCSE Grade C in English and Maths, and prior experience as a Teaching Assistant.
The predicted salary is between 20422 - 22161 £ per year.
Polaris Education - Selwyn Hall School
One-to-One Teaching Assistant
Contract: Fixed Term, 1 year, Full Time, Term Time Only
Basic Salary: £21,257.48 - £23,232.69
Location: Foxton, Cambridgeshire
Start Date: ASAP
Benefits
- Company Pension
- Life Assurance
- Employee Discount Scheme
About Our School
Selwyn Hall School is an SEN school in Foxton, south west of Cambridge, which provides specialist education for 7-18-year-olds with social, emotional and mental health difficulties (SEMH). Our pupils may have a number of diagnoses, including ASD, ADHD, FASD, anxiety and/or communication and interaction, cognition and learning needs. Our small bespoke groupings of 4-6 children ensure that every pupil receives the individual attention they need to succeed.
The school is situated within large private grounds to create a therapeutic environment that enables us to focus on the health and wellbeing of the pupils. We have space for a range of outdoor learning experiences including forest school, a multi-use sports pitch, sensory trail, conservation area and play equipment. Inside, the building has been completely refurbished and offers a range of classrooms and activity rooms including science, computing, music, drama and art/DT.
We are part of the Polaris Community and have been passionately improving the lives of young people for over 30 years. Within the Polaris Community, we have several SEN schools across the UK that work together to provide each pupil with a tailored, diverse and appropriate education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes engagement, inspires learning and encourages achievement. All of our provisions are rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.
Role Responsibilities
- Dedicated to mentoring and supporting one pupil, or a small group of no more than six pupils
- Supporting the classroom teacher during lessons
- Reporting on pupils' progress and concerns, and liaising with other school staff to ensure pupils' needs are met
- Supervision of pupils during non-classroom time, including extra-curricular activities and school trips
- Assisting with lesson planning and classroom preparation
- Setting work where appropriate, and marking
- Building positive relationships with pupils and driving interaction and positive learning outcomes
Requirements
- Have a strong basic education, ideally to A-level, with a minimum of GCSE Grade C or equivalent in English Language and Mathematics, and sound IT skills
- Previous experience in a similar role, for example as a Teaching Assistant
- Some previous experience of working with pupils with SEMH within an educational setting
- Be experienced and confident enough to take additional responsibility in an area of school, for example food hygiene, forest school, lunchtimes or school yoga
- Experience of behaviour management and techniques
- Committed to professional development and willing to learn
What We Offer
- A workplace that values the emotional health and wellbeing of everybody, including you
- A commitment to support your development in acquiring new skills through a wide range of professional opportunities
- An opportunity to make a huge contribution to the lives and lifelong learning of vulnerable children who deserve high-quality teaching in a safe educational provision
- A friendly and inclusive team who are passionate about improving pupil outcomes
The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, the cost of which will be met by Selwyn Hall School.
Selwyn Hall School is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Selwyn Hall School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.
One-to-One Teaching Assistant in Cambridge employer: Polaris Community
At Headway Adolescent Resources, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for both our staff and the children in our care. Located in the tranquil setting of East Huntspill, Highbridge, we offer competitive salaries, generous bonuses, and a strong commitment to professional development, ensuring that our Registered Managers have the support and resources needed to thrive. Join our passionate team and make a meaningful impact while enjoying a positive work culture that values resilience, collaboration, and the voices of those we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land One-to-One Teaching Assistant in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with SEMH. Understanding their challenges and how to support them will show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in similar educational settings, especially with one-to-one support. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Selwyn Hall School and its approach to education. Being knowledgeable about their ethos and values will help you align your answers during interviews and show genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific strategies you would use for behaviour management and building relationships with pupils. This is crucial for a role focused on individual support and engagement.
We think you need these skills to ace One-to-One Teaching Assistant in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the One-To-One Teaching Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match what Selwyn Hall School is looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience you have working with pupils with social, emotional, and mental health difficulties (SEMH). Mention specific techniques or strategies you have used in behaviour management and how they contributed to positive learning outcomes.
Showcase Your Skills:Make sure to include your qualifications, especially your GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics. If you have additional skills related to the role, such as food hygiene or experience with outdoor learning, be sure to mention these as they can set you apart from other candidates.
Personalise Your Application:Address your cover letter to the hiring manager if possible, and express your passion for supporting vulnerable children. Share a brief story or example that illustrates your commitment to education and how you can contribute to the wellbeing of the pupils at Selwyn Hall School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Polaris Community
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with special educational needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience as a Teaching Assistant or in similar roles. Focus on specific examples where you've successfully supported students with SEMH needs, and explain the techniques you used to manage behaviour and promote positive learning outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions that may ask how you would handle certain situations, such as a pupil struggling with anxiety or a behavioural issue. Think through your responses in advance, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since you'll be working closely with teachers and other staff, it's important to showcase your ability to collaborate. Share examples of how you've worked as part of a team in the past, and emphasise your willingness to support colleagues and contribute to a positive school environment.
