At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 support to help a vulnerable student thrive in their learning journey.
- Company: Haywards Farm School, a caring and inclusive independent specialist setting.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health cash plan, free holiday accommodation, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy regular outdoor learning sessions and a collaborative team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEN support, strong communication skills, and emotional resilience required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Haywards Farm School is a small, outstanding independent specialist setting in West Berkshire (up to 34 pupils). We support children and young people with a range of needs, including learning difficulties, social and emotional needs and autism (ASD). Many pupils have experienced disrupted education and need consistent, relational support to re‑engage with learning and routines.
We are looking for an energetic, dedicated Teaching Assistant to provide consistent 1:1 support for a vulnerable student. You will help the student feel safe and settled in school, build trust, improve attendance and develop confidence in core subjects and vocational interests. This is a practical, relationship‑based role. You will use active listening, clear boundaries and a calm, therapeutic approach, adapting your support in line with the student’s EHCP outcomes and behaviour support plans. Safeguarding and pupil wellbeing are always central to this role.
Key responsibilities- Provide consistent 1:1 support, helping the student focus, regulate and complete learning tasks
- Support engagement with assessment tools and programmes, including GL Assessment and Accelerated Reader, as part of the school assessment cycle
- Build a strong rapport with the student, offering structured support and appropriate challenge
- Share relevant observations and progress updates with staff and, where appropriate, parents
- Work alongside school therapists to implement recommended strategies linked to EHCP objectives
- Support learning beyond the classroom where appropriate, including supervised use of community resources such as libraries, museums and other curriculum‑relevant venues
- At least two years’ experience in a similar role or setting (for example SEN support, behaviour support, alternative provision or residential childcare)
- Strong communication skills, emotional resilience and a consistent, professional approach
- The flexibility and creativity to adapt support to changing needs
- Physical capability for the demands of the role, including the potential need for physical interventions in line with behaviour support plans
- willingness to complete training in safe physical intervention techniques (essential)
- Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.00pm, with minimal after‑hours commitments
- Friday afternoons are CPD time with no students on site, plus 10 INSET days across the year
- Therapeutic reflection and twice‑daily briefings to support strong practice and consistency
- Regular offsite outdoor learning and enrichment sessions
- Hot lunch cooked on site every day
- Opportunities to collaborate across West Berkshire and with our partnership school, sharing expertise and best practice
- Life insurance (death in service) – 4x basic annual salary
- Health cash plan (Health Shield) (after probation/eligibility applies)
- Training and development – induction and mandatory training, plus CPD, therapeutic support and further qualifications
- Free holiday accommodation – company holiday home on south coast
- Discounts – Blue Light Card + local partner discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – free, confidential 24/7 support helpline
- Company pension with award winning provider and enhanced employer contributions
- Company sick pay scheme available after 6 months’ service
- Electric car scheme + Cycle to Work – salary sacrifice options
- Recognition – Employee of the Month + long service awards
- Discounted driving lessons with local instructor
- Referral bonus scheme – financial incentives for successful referrals (criteria apply)
Amegreen is committed to being an organisation where people can be their authentic selves in a safe, inclusive environment. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are actively building diverse teams. If you require any accessibility adjustments to support your application, please contact us.
SafeguardingAmegreen Children’s Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and references. All employees must complete mandatory safeguarding and GDPR training. Successful candidates will complete a thorough safeguarding onboarding process, including a full employment history review and an enhanced DBS check.
How to apply:Teaching Assistant in Newbury employer: School & College
Contact Detail:
School & College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant in Newbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with special needs. They might know about openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to supporting vulnerable students. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role at Haywards Farm School.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the role! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've made a difference in a student's life. This will help us see your dedication 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 and shows that you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant in Newbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the role of a Teaching Assistant. We want to see how you can support our students with their unique needs, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who is dedicated and energetic, so share why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can make a difference.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at School & College
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Haywards Farm School and its values. Understanding their commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing will help you align your answers with what they prioritise in a Teaching Assistant.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience in similar roles, especially in supporting students with learning difficulties or emotional needs. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've built rapport and provided effective support in the past.
✨Demonstrate Active Listening Skills
Since this role requires a calm and therapeutic approach, practice demonstrating active listening during the interview. Show that you can engage thoughtfully with questions and provide clear, concise responses that reflect your understanding of the role.
✨Prepare Questions About Support Strategies
Think of insightful questions to ask about the strategies used at Haywards Farm School for supporting students with EHCP outcomes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and your readiness to collaborate with staff and therapists.