At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teachers and help students with special educational needs thrive.
- Company: Portesbery School, a caring and supportive environment for young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a magical school community with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people with diverse needs.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm, resilience, and a commitment to improving life outcomes.
The predicted salary is between 17297 - 17297 £ per year.
Portesbery School is a very special school for pupils between the ages of 3-19. We have vacancies for Teaching Assistants to join our team at our impressive, purpose-built school in Deepcut. This is an exciting opportunity to join our progressive and successful school for Children and Young Adults with a range of Special Educational Needs, from Severe, Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties to Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Some students have complex medical conditions and/or physical disabilities.
Personal attributes
We are looking for enthusiastic, imaginative and energetic teaching assistants who are willing to work across the school, supporting class teachers in the school’s vision to ensure students achieve high quality communication, independence and life skills. You need to be committed to improving life outcomes for young people, open to learning new skills, and a team player. The role can include working with young people with challenging behaviour, so you should be physically and emotionally resilient as well. We are a supportive, happy, caring and hardworking school who put children at the heart of all we do.
A level 2 qualification in a relevant area is desirable but you would be joining an experienced, dedicated and well-trained team and would receive a full induction and support programme, as well as benefiting from a wide range of CPD and career progression opportunities. We welcome visits - if you would like to make an appointment please contact the school office.
Our May 2023 Ofsted inspection noted that “During the inspection, one member of staff captured the views of many. They described the school as a ‘magical place’. Staff feel well supported by the headteacher and other leaders. Their workload and well-being are prioritised.” We are very proud of our school community; please look at our website for lots more information about our school.
The successful applicants will be required to have an enhanced DBS check.
Salary & Benefits
Salary is based on Surrey Pay PS3 (£24,330 Full Time Equivalent). Actual/pro-rata salary is £17,297 (29.75 hours per week, 39 weeks per year). Hourly Rate is £12.99. Working Hours are Mon-Fri 8:50am-3:20pm, term time only (we will also consider casual/bank hours). There are also further opportunities to work additional hours at our established After School Club.
Deadline for applications
Please apply as soon as possible (only school application forms will be accepted). Closing date: Monday 5th January at 12:00pm. Interview dates: Applicants will be notified by email if selected for interview. Required to start: As soon as possible. Please note that we reserve the right to close the vacancy earlier than scheduled if all positions are filled.
Portesbery School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Safeguarding Statement: Portesbery 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.
Teaching Assistants employer: Portesbery School
Portesbery School is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for teaching assistants. With a strong emphasis on professional development, you will benefit from comprehensive induction training and continuous career progression opportunities, all while making a meaningful impact in the lives of students. Located in England, the school promotes a collaborative culture where teamwork and resilience are valued, ensuring that every staff member feels empowered and appreciated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistants
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a good look at Portesbery School's website. Familiarise yourself with their values and mission. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about common interview questions for teaching assistants and rehearse your responses. Focus on your experiences and how they relate to supporting students with special educational needs. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children and young adults with special needs come through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to improving life outcomes for young people.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email. It’s a great way to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. Mention specific examples of how you've supported students or worked in similar environments.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us get a quick sense of who you are!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portesbery School
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to understand Portesbery School's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their approach to supporting students with special educational needs. This will help you align your answers with their vision and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Showcase Your Enthusiasm
As a teaching assistant, enthusiasm is key! Be prepared to share examples of how you've engaged with young people in the past. Whether it's through creative activities or supporting their independence, demonstrating your passion for helping students will make a strong impression.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle challenging behaviour or support students with complex needs. Think of specific scenarios from your experience where you successfully managed similar situations. This will highlight your resilience and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for this role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the support and training provided for new teaching assistants or how the school fosters teamwork among staff. This shows your commitment to professional development and your eagerness to contribute positively to the school environment.
