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- Tasks: Support pupils with SEMH needs in and out of the classroom.
- Company: Portland School, dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Generous holiday entitlement, health plan, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEMH or SEN needs is a plus; strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Portland School is recruiting passionate SEN Support Assistants (SENSA) to support pupils with a range of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs across our two provisions at Trent Vale and Blythe Bridge.
Responsibilities
- Work within the classroom to support learning for pupils with SEMH needs.
- Provide one‑to‑one support for children outside the classroom for scheduled sections of the day.
- Assist teachers with lesson planning, classroom management and attention to pupils’ individual needs.
- Support pupils in accessing outdoor education and specialist facilities at the Blythe Bridge site.
Qualifications
- Previous experience working with pupils who have SEMH or SEN needs is desirable.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- A driving licence is desirable as you may need to work on a one‑to‑one basis off‑site.
Benefits
- Holiday entitlement: 37 days (up to 39 days after 5 years’ service, including Bank Holidays).
- Access to the Medicash Health & Wellbeing Plan.
- Free eye tests and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Opportunities for professional development within the Trust.
Equal Opportunities
Portland School is an Equal Opportunities employer. We are fully committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection processes promote equality, diversity, and inclusion at every stage.
Teaching Assistant (SENSA) employer: Portlandschool
Contact Detail:
Portlandschool Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (SENSA)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN pupils. They might know about openings or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEMH needs. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role of a Teaching Assistant. We want you to shine when it’s your turn to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for supporting pupils with SEMH needs during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles. This will help us see your commitment and suitability for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (SENSA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for supporting pupils with SEMH needs shine through. We want to see why you care about this role and how your experiences have shaped that passion.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any previous experience you have working with children who have SEMH or SEN needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if it helps to break down your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portlandschool
✨Know Your SEMH Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. Familiarise yourself with common challenges these pupils face and think about how you can support them effectively. This will show the interviewers that you're genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
If you've worked with SEN or SEMH pupils before, be ready to share specific examples. Talk about what strategies you used, how you adapted your approach, and the positive outcomes you achieved. Real-life stories can really make you stand out!
✨Communication is Key
Since good communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you would explain complex ideas simply, especially when discussing how to engage with pupils who may struggle with communication themselves.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the school's approach to supporting SEMH needs or opportunities for professional development. It shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in being part of the school's community.
