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- Tasks: Support teachers in creating a positive learning environment for students with SEMH and SEN needs.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at a nurturing Pupil Referral Unit in Blandford Forum.
- Benefits: Earn £13.75 per hour, enjoy term-time work, and access free training courses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while developing your skills in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in educational settings or mental health, plus a calm approach to challenges.
- Other info: Full-time hours with opportunities for career growth and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Location: Blandford Forum, Dorset
Salary: £13.75
Start Date: January or sooner
Are you passionate about supporting young people with SEMH and SEN needs? If you answered yes, then this job opportunity for an SEN(D) Teaching Assistant may be for you!
A SEMH/PRU Secondary School in Blandford Forum is seeking a dedicated SEMH Teaching Assistant to join their team.
The Role:
You will be supporting classroom teachers in providing the best learning environment possible for pupils aged 11-16 years old, with various SEMH and SEND needs. This is a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) school setting, meaning students may have difficulties with:
- Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH)
- Communication and interaction
- Cognition and learning
- Sensory and/or physical needs
- General behavioural difficulties
This school strives to ensure every student grows in confidence; is ready to achieve success and contributes positively to society by providing them with imaginative, nurturing and motivating learning opportunities. If you’d like to be a part of a happy and ambitious school which enriches individuals academically, socially and emotionally – this may be the role for you!
Who We Are Looking For:
- Relevant experience in similar educational settings
- Mental Health experience / Psychology degree
- Youth Work experience
- Driving licence required if you live outside of Blandford
- SEMH experience
- Understanding of positive behaviour support strategies
- Able to de‑escape challenging situations calmly and safely
Working Hours/Benefits:
- Full Time Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday = 08:45 – 15:45
- Tuesday = 08:45 – 16:15
- Teaching Personnel offers its educators 10 SEN training courses which are free of charge, plus plenty more with a generous discount!
- 12.07% Holiday Pay
- Please note, this role is Term‑Time Only
About Us:
Teaching Personnel is a specialist education recruitment agency, working with a variety of SEN(D) schools across the UK – pairing talented educators with the perfect role for them! We pride ourselves on providing the best experience possible for all educators, schools, and students we work with. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.
Teaching Assistant SEN in Blandford Forum employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant SEN in Blandford Forum
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN students. They might know of openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its approach to SEMH and SEN needs. Show them you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about their specific challenges and how you can help.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to behaviour management and supporting students with SEN. We want you to feel confident and ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and you’re considered for roles that match your skills and passion.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant SEN in Blandford Forum
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting young people with SEMH and SEN needs shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in similar educational settings. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills and understanding of the challenges faced by students with SEMH and SEND needs.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your enthusiasm comes across without overwhelming us with too much information.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the specific needs of students with SEMH and SEN. Brush up on relevant strategies and approaches, like positive behaviour support. This will show that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the role.
✨Share Your Experiences
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in similar educational settings. Whether it's mental health work, youth work, or any relevant training, be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported young people in challenging situations.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Since you'll be working in a Pupil Referral Unit, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to de-escalate challenging situations. Think of scenarios where you've successfully managed difficult behaviours and be prepared to talk about them.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting students with SEMH needs or what training opportunities they offer. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school’s mission.
