At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join Piper Hill High School, an Outstanding institution dedicated to exceptional education for all learners.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and health perks like Bupa and mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Basic understanding of child development and level 2 qualifications in literacy and numeracy required.
- Other info: This role is term-time only, perfect for students seeking meaningful work experience.
The predicted salary is between 17900 - 20900 £ per year.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for three Teaching Assistant Level 1 SEN to join our fantastic team at Piper Hill High School. These are Grade 3, permanent posts working 35 hours per week, term time only plus 5 INSET days. The pro-rata salary is £20,990 and the full-time equivalent is £24,404 to start September 2025 once pre-employment checks are complete.
We’re looking for a Teaching Assistant, eligible to work in the UK, who can support pupils with their educational establishment, as well as attend to the child's personal needs such as social, pastoral and physical hygiene. You will need to have a basic understanding of child development and learning. To converse at ease and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post and excellent numeracy and literacy skills, qualified to level 2 or equivalent/higher.
This is a great opportunity to work in a Special Educational Needs School, you will be part of a team providing exceptional education for students. You will require tact and diplomacy in order to build excellent interpersonal relationships with all stakeholders including colleagues across the school and trust, parents and external agencies. Experience of working with children and/or young people with communication, severe, profound or complex learning difficulties is highly desirable.
Main purpose of the job: You will support teaching and learning across the school, providing general support in the management of pupils and resources, working under the supervision of the class teacher, department lead and senior leadership team. Some students at Piper Hill School have complex and challenging behaviours and have individualised plans to support them.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Assist in the supervision of classroom and outdoor activities.
- Work with small groups of children under the supervision of the teacher and ensure implementation of Individual Learning Plans.
- Provide regular feedback on children’s progress to the class teacher and keep records up to date.
- Assist with the supervision of discreet groups of pupils for short periods when the teacher is not present.
- Be aware of and support difference and ensure all pupils have equal access to opportunities to learn and develop.
- Participate in training, to develop relevant learning strategies and ensure students make progress in learning.
- Support the performance management process and demonstrate commitment to continuous professional development.
All school staff are expected to share the Trust’s commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Specific safeguarding responsibilities are detailed in the attached job description.
Piper Hill School is an Outstanding school that is ambitious for every one of our learners. We are a larger than average size special school that caters for students aged 11 – 19 with significant learning difficulties. We aim to provide the very best education for our students and to ensure they have the very best outcomes and make the best rates of progress they possibly can.
Piper Hill High School has state of the art facilities that provide an environment suitable for the learning needs of both children and young adults, including a hydrotherapy pool, dance and drama studio, gym, and an interactive learning environment (ILE room). The school also has a variety of outside spaces, including a Forest School space with overnight camping pods.
Our recent Ofsted inspection found the school continues to be Outstanding: "Pupils flourish at this exceptional school. They feel safe and happy in this welcoming place, where everyone is treated equally. They rise to the school’s high expectations of their behaviour because staff know and understand them well." Ofsted 2023.
Please apply using the online application form; incomplete applications may not be considered. CVs are not accepted. Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.
As per Keeping Children Safe in Education, we conduct online searches on shortlisted candidates to identify any relevant issues for interview discussion. Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a self-disclosure declaration, declaring any relevant convictions, adult cautions or other matters which may affect your suitability to work with children.
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK; we do not sponsor visa applications. Job offers are contingent on satisfactory pre-employment checks, including references.
Safeguarding Commitment: All schools within the Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Equality Statement: Prospere Learning Trust values diversity and welcomes applications from all candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.
For application packs or support, contact us at 0161 527 7953 or jobs@prospere.org.uk.
Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN) employer: Prospere Learning Trust
Contact Detail:
Prospere Learning Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Understanding the challenges they face and how to support them will show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends and strategies in SEN education. This could involve reading up on recent research or attending workshops, which can help you discuss relevant topics during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of special education. Connecting with current Teaching Assistants or educators can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable recommendations.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview. Since building relationships is key in this role, think of examples where you've successfully communicated or collaborated with others.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN) position. Highlight your understanding of child development and any relevant experience you have in supporting children with special educational needs.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application to reflect how your skills and experiences align with the specific needs of Piper Hill High School. Use examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to support students with complex learning difficulties.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to mention your qualifications, especially if you have Level 2 or higher in literacy and numeracy. If you have any additional training related to special educational needs, be sure to include that as well.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in an educational setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospere Learning Trust
✨Understand the Role
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant Level 1 SEN. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of students with special educational needs and how you can support their learning and personal development.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss any previous experience you have working with children, especially those with communication or learning difficulties. Highlight specific examples where you successfully supported a child's learning or managed challenging behaviours.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent spoken English is essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be ready to explain how you would communicate effectively with both students and colleagues, ensuring that everyone feels included and understood.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills
The role requires building strong relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you work collaboratively within a team and how you handle conflicts or challenges in a professional manner, demonstrating your tact and diplomacy.