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- Tasks: Support neurodivergent children in their emotional and educational journey.
- Company: The Hawthorns School, a new provision for children with autism.
- Benefits: Same-day GP appointments, free physiotherapy, counselling, and wellbeing incentives.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team within the SEAX Trust for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with neurodivergent young people and a compassionate approach.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Family and Engagement Support Role - New Provision - HAWTHORNS CONNECT
Position Type: Teaching/Child Support
Pay Range: Scale 6, points 14-18
Position Start Date: 01/09/2026
Contract Type: Part-time
Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 01/06/2026
Date of Interviews: 8th June 2026
Staff appointed to Hawthorns Connect will be required to demonstrate high levels of skill and experience in working with neurodivergent children, applying trauma-informed approaches to support emotional regulation, engagement and sustained progress.
- Thoughtful, compassionate and reflective and a team player
- Desire to support pupils to engage, learn and achieve
- Share our ethos of kindness, curiosity, integrity and participation
- Have experience of working or living with neurodivergent young people
- Embrace challenges with a sense of humour
Benefits include same-day GP appointments, free physiotherapy, counselling and a range of other wellbeing incentives. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
The Hawthorns School opened its doors in January 2023 for children with autism. We are now in our purpose-built school in Chelmsford and extend our provision for KS3 and KS4 pupils.
Please note that the role is part of the SEAX Trust, which offers a range of professional support and networking. For further information about the benefits of working within SEAX Trust, please review the attached information pack.
Part-time Pastoral Support Assistant in Essex employer: St Teresa's
Contact Detail:
St Teresa's Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Part-time Pastoral Support Assistant in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its ethos! Research Hawthorns Connect and understand their approach to supporting neurodivergent children. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through community groups. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to trauma-informed approaches and working with neurodivergent children. We recommend role-playing with a friend to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Hawthorns Connect.
We think you need these skills to ace Part-time Pastoral Support Assistant in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting neurodivergent children shine through. We want to see your genuine desire to help pupils engage and learn, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment.
Be Reflective: Take a moment to reflect on your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We appreciate thoughtful and compassionate candidates, so don’t hesitate to discuss how you've applied trauma-informed approaches in your previous work.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically to the Hawthorns Connect ethos. Use language from the job description to demonstrate that you understand our values of kindness, curiosity, integrity, and participation.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at St Teresa's
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Pastoral Support Assistant and the specific needs of neurodivergent children. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed approaches and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past experiences.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, demonstrate your thoughtful and compassionate nature. Share examples of how you've supported young people in the past, especially those who may have faced challenges. This will show that you align with their ethos of kindness and integrity.
✨Be a Team Player
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with others. Discuss any previous experiences where teamwork was essential, especially in educational settings. This will reassure them that you can contribute positively to their team at Hawthorns Connect.
✨Embrace the Challenge
Approach the interview with a sense of humour and positivity. Be prepared to discuss how you handle challenges and setbacks, particularly in a school environment. This attitude will resonate well with the values of the Hawthorns School.