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- Tasks: Support teachers in delivering quality education to students with special needs.
- Company: Join Pond Meadow Academy, an outstanding school for children with ASD and severe learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment, LGPS pension scheme, and comprehensive well-being services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your skills in a vibrant team.
- Qualifications: No specific experience needed; training provided, but special needs experience is a plus.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; applications from all backgrounds are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 19500 - 26000 £ per year.
DescriptionSupporting documentsEmployerLocation
Teaching Assistants
Required asap
Full time – Term-Time Only
31 hours per week
(M/W/Th/F: 9.00 – 3.30 Tu: 9.00 – 4.30)
Salary PS3 £24,330 p.a.
£18,020 per annum pro rata
Paid Monthly £1,501 gross throughout the year.
An excellent opportunity to join the committed and friendly teaching team of our outstanding, supportive and innovative Special School.
Pond Meadow Academy Trust is a specialist day school providing high quality education for approximately 160 pupils from 3-19 years of age. Based in Guildford, Surrey, the school provides education for Surrey children from 3-19 with ASD (Autism, Communication and Interaction Needs) and/or Severe Learning Disabilities.
The school converted to a Special Academy on 1st November 2014 and has been judged ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in our last five inspections, the most recent in June 2023.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a teaching assistant to join our vibrant team of 130 staff and play a significant part in the development of our outstanding Academy. Our school is growing to 200 pupils over the next 4 years with a new building for KS4/5 being built in 2025, including exciting enhancements and adaptions to the existing school environment.
We wish to recruit dynamic and highly motivated individuals who are committed to providing quality education and care which best places our pupils to maximise their learning and potential. The school has a strong focus on education that prepares pupils for life.
Successful candidates will be subject to enhanced DBS approval as part of our rigorous approach to safeguarding our children. Special Needs/autism experience would be helpful but not essential, as training will be given.
Our induction, CPD programme and opportunities to further develop are rated highly by current staff members as supportive, at the forefront of research and CV enhancing. We offer the LGPS pension scheme and a comprehensive employee well-being service.
This role is considered to be ‘regulated’ and as part of our rigorous approach to safeguarding children, candidates will be subject to enhanced DBS approval and will participate in regular safeguarding training and updates.
Pond Meadow is a welcoming and truly unique school where the values of Learning, Independence, Respect and Equality sit at the heart of everything we do. If you are committed to high quality education for all then we would love to hear from you. We particularly welcome applications from a range of backgrounds as our school strives to have our staff and employees mirror the diversity of our student population.
Closing Date: open
Shortlisting: TBC
Interviews: TBC
Please email Office/HR Manager Julie Harper in school office for a paper application form.
Safeguarding Statement
Pond Meadow School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
Teaching Assistant employer: Pond Meadow School
Contact Detail:
Pond Meadow School 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 ASD and severe learning disabilities. Understanding their challenges and how to support them can set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the school's values of Learning, Independence, Respect, and Equality. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your teaching approach and interactions with students.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members if possible. They can provide insights into the school culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any relevant training or experience you have, even if it's not directly related to special needs. Showing a willingness to learn and adapt is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Teaching Assistant position. Highlight any relevant experience or skills you possess that align with the role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in education, particularly with special needs or autism if applicable. Emphasise your commitment to providing quality education and care, as well as any relevant training or qualifications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and your understanding of the values of Pond Meadow Academy Trust. Mention specific examples of how you can contribute to their mission of supporting pupils with ASD and severe learning disabilities.
Highlight Your Commitment to Safeguarding: Since safeguarding is a key aspect of this role, make sure to mention any previous experience or training related to child protection and safeguarding practices. This will demonstrate your awareness and commitment to the safety and welfare of children.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pond Meadow School
✨Understand the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with the core values of Pond Meadow Academy Trust: Learning, Independence, Respect, and Equality. Be prepared to discuss how these values resonate with your own teaching philosophy and how you can contribute to fostering them in the classroom.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Even if you don't have direct experience with special needs or autism, think about any relevant skills or experiences you can bring to the role. Highlight any previous work with children, volunteering, or training that demonstrates your ability to support diverse learning needs.
✨Prepare for Safeguarding Questions
Given the school's commitment to safeguarding, expect questions related to child protection and welfare. Be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding practices and how you would ensure a safe environment for all pupils.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to inquire about the school's approach to professional development and how they support staff in their roles. This shows your interest in growth and commitment to the school community.
