At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with emotional and behavioural challenges in a nurturing classroom environment.
- Company: Specialist independent school focused on SEMH provision across Gloucester.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, long-term placement, and support for further qualifications.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to holistic education and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people every day.
- Qualifications: Experience in teaching assistance or relevant fields; recent graduates welcome.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are recruiting Pastoral Support & SEN Teaching Assistants to join a specialist, multi-site SEMH provision across Gloucester (GL1, GL2 and GL19). These are dedicated classroom-based TA roles within well-established provisions. You will be placed within one of three settings, supporting pupils across primary, secondary or a girls-only school, depending on your experience and strengths.
You will be joining a specialist, independent school supporting pupils with:
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH)
- Autism (ASC), ADHD, OCD and PDA profiles
- Anxiety, emotional regulation needs and attachment difficulties
- Communication and sensory processing differences
Across three sites in Gloucester, the school delivers small class sizes, high staff ratios and a therapeutic, child-centred approach, focused on re-engaging pupils who may have previously struggled in mainstream education. Each site offers a slightly different focus:
- GL19 (Secondary Provision) - supporting older pupils with SEMH and behavioural needs
- GL1 (Primary & Girls Secondary) - a nurturing setting with mixed age support
- GL2 (Girls-Only Secondary Provision) - focused pastoral and therapeutic support environment
As a Teaching Assistant / Pastoral Support Practitioner, you will:
- Provide consistent 1:1 and small-group support in a classroom setting
- Support pupils with emotional regulation, behaviour and engagement
- Build strong, trusting relationships with students who require stability and routine
- Assist with learning activities, structured interventions and life skills development
- Work closely with teachers, SENCOs and pastoral teams
- Help maintain a calm, structured and supportive environment
- Support pupils who may experience anxiety, distress or behavioural challenges
- Contribute to a therapeutic and holistic approach to education
This is a hands-on, impactful role where strong relationships and consistency are key. We are particularly interested in candidates who have:
- Experience working as a Teaching Assistant (TA) or Learning Support Assistant
- Background in SEN, SEMH, pastoral support or behaviour mentoring
- Experience in care, residential settings, youth work or support roles
- Confidence supporting students with complex needs and emotional challenges
We also welcome strong recent graduates (e.g. Psychology, Education, Criminology) who have hands-on experience supporting young people.
Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualifications are highly desirable. However, the school is willing to support and fund NVQ/TA qualifications for the right candidate. This makes it an excellent opportunity for experienced candidates looking to formalise their qualifications and progress.
Key attributes include:
- Calm, consistent and emotionally intelligent approach
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to manage behaviour positively and professionally
- Resilience and confidence in challenging situations
- Genuine passion for supporting vulnerable young people
- Enhanced DBS (or willingness to apply)
Competitive weekly pay via PAYE (no umbrella deductions). Placement within a stable, long-term school setting. Opportunity to work in a specialist, well-supported provision.
Pastoral Support & SEN Teaching Assistant - Multi-Site Provision (Gloucester) employer: Teaching Personnel
Join a dedicated team as a Pastoral Support & SEN Teaching Assistant in Gloucester, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with SEMH needs. Our supportive work culture prioritises professional development, offering funding for qualifications and fostering strong relationships within small class sizes. With a focus on emotional well-being and a therapeutic approach, this role provides a rewarding environment for those passionate about supporting vulnerable young people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pastoral Support & SEN Teaching Assistant - Multi-Site Provision (Gloucester)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN or pastoral support. They might know of openings that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN and pastoral support. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want you to showcase your passion and skills effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
When you get an interview, be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support students with emotional and behavioural challenges. Real-life examples will help you stand out and show that you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Pastoral Support & SEN Teaching Assistant - Multi-Site Provision (Gloucester)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Pastoral Support & SEN Teaching Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience with SEMH, emotional regulation, and any specific skills that match what we’re looking for.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting vulnerable young people shine through in your application. Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This ensures that your application gets to the right people quickly and efficiently, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the specific needs of the pupils you'll be supporting. Familiarise yourself with terms like SEMH, ASC, and ADHD, and think about how your experience aligns with these areas. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you genuinely care about the students.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully supported students with emotional or behavioural challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easy for the interviewer to see your impact.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewer. Smile, maintain eye contact, and listen actively. This reflects the strong relationship-building skills that are crucial for the role, and it shows that you can create a supportive environment for the pupils.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to supporting pupils with SEMH needs or how they foster a therapeutic environment. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
