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- Tasks: Support neurodivergent children in their learning and emotional development.
- Company: Join a compassionate team at The Hawthorns School, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy same-day GP appointments, free physiotherapy, counselling, and wellbeing incentives.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive network within the SEAX Trust for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the lives of young people while embracing challenges with humour.
- Qualifications: Experience working with neurodivergent youth and a passion for supporting their growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Family and Engagement Support Role - New Provision - HAWTHORNS CONNECT
Job Ref No. ECC7006-128
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.
Contact: Laura Roberts
The Hawthorns School
Thornhurst Road, Chelmsford
Essex, CM1 2XT
Telephone: 01245 207607
Email: admin@thehawthornsschool.com
Part-time Pastoral Support Assistant 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
✨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 Hawthorns team and ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
We think you need these skills to ace Part-time Pastoral Support Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with neurodivergent children. We want to see how your skills align with our ethos of kindness and support!
Showcase Your Compassion: In your written application, let us know about times you've demonstrated thoughtfulness and compassion. We’re looking for team players who can engage and inspire our pupils!
Be Reflective: Share examples of how you’ve reflected on your practice and adapted your approach. We value those who embrace challenges and learn from them, so don’t hold back!
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 get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Teresa's
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, 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
This role requires a thoughtful and compassionate approach. Be prepared to share examples of how you've supported young people in the past, especially those who may have faced challenges. Highlight your ability to engage with pupils and help them achieve their goals.
✨Embrace the Team Spirit
The Hawthorns School values teamwork, so be ready to talk about your experiences working collaboratively. Share instances where you've worked effectively within a team to support students, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to a positive school environment.
✨Bring Your Sense of Humour
Working with children can be challenging, but a good sense of humour can go a long way. Be prepared to discuss how you maintain a positive atmosphere while supporting emotional regulation and engagement. This will show that you can handle challenges with grace and positivity.