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- Tasks: Support primary pupils with communication needs in a nurturing classroom and outdoor environment.
- Company: Sense Education is dedicated to empowering children with special educational needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, career progression, and training opportunities in a supportive network.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's learning journeys while working with passionate professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience with care roles or special educational needs is preferred; training provided for communication methods.
- Other info: Full-time role with immediate start; part-time options available.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Sense Education are looking to appoint a Specialist Learning Support Assistant at a SEND unit within the Whitehaven area. The role will involve working with primary aged pupils who have communication needs, within the classroom setting, in the school’s specialist outdoor play areas and on regular off-site visits.
Key responsibilities:
- Provide 1-1 and small group support to non-verbal children within a supportive and nurturing environment.
- Assist in the implementation of personalised learning plans and work closely with the classroom teacher to adapt and deliver activities tailored to suit each child’s individual needs.
- Utilise alternative communication methods such as Makaton and PECS to support children to express themselves and engage with their learning journey.
- Track and document children’s progress, providing feedback to parents, the class teacher and wider team to inform ongoing support strategies.
- Assist with off-site trips, ensuring children are safe whilst travelling and whilst visiting various learning environments.
- Assist children with toileting needs.
Requirements:
- Prior experience working in a care role with adults or with children with special educational needs.
- Knowledge of alternative communication methods such as Makaton, PECS and assistive technology is highly desirable, but not a must (additional training can be provided).
- Have a compassionate, patient and proactive approach to working with children who require additional support.
- To be able to work collaboratively within a team to ensure that all children’s individual needs are met.
- Degree level education or relevant qualifications in education, childcare or social care.
About the school:
A purpose built school designed to create the best possible learning environment for primary pupils with Special educational needs. Its large classrooms each have dedicated small group rooms, cloakrooms and accessible toilets and access to specialist outdoor provisions. The school also has dedicated sensory, therapy and medical rooms.
The working day begins at 8.30am and ends at 3.30pm. The position is full time with an immediate start. We will also consider part time and job share for this role.
Benefits:
- Working with special education professionals
- Supportive network
- Career progression & training opportunities
- Flexible working
At Sense Education we are community focussed and supporting our staff with career development and training. If you are passionate about SEND education and want to be part of a specialist team that is committed to empowering children in their learning journey, we would love to hear from you!
Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.
Contact Detail:
Sense Education Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Learning Support Assistant Sense Education
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with alternative communication methods like Makaton and PECS. Even if you haven't used them before, showing a willingness to learn can set you apart during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience working with children or adults with special educational needs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported individuals in similar roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your understanding of personalised learning plans. Think about how you would adapt activities for different needs and be prepared to discuss this in your conversation with us.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for SEND education by discussing any relevant training or workshops you've attended. This will illustrate your commitment to professional development and working collaboratively within a team.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Learning Support Assistant Sense Education
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with children or in care roles. Emphasise skills related to communication methods like Makaton and PECS, even if you have not used them extensively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for SEND education. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your compassionate and proactive approach to supporting children with special educational needs.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list any degrees or qualifications related to education, childcare, or social care. If you have completed any training in alternative communication methods, be sure to include that as well.
Prepare for the Interview: Think about potential questions related to working with non-verbal children and how you would implement personalised learning plans. Be ready to discuss your teamwork skills and how you can contribute to a supportive environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sense Education Limited
✨Show Your Passion for SEND Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children who have special educational needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the challenges these children face.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Communication Methods
Since the role involves using alternative communication methods like Makaton and PECS, take some time to learn about these techniques before the interview. Being able to discuss how you would implement these methods in your support will show your proactive approach and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare Examples of Past Experience
Think of specific examples from your previous work or volunteer experiences where you successfully supported children or adults with additional needs. Be ready to discuss how you adapted your approach to meet individual requirements, as this will highlight your ability to provide tailored support.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview about the school's approach to SEND education, team dynamics, and professional development opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the school is the right fit for you.
