At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable students in their academic and emotional development.
- Company: Thamesmead, a nurturing school community focused on inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to student success and emotional wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives and help them thrive.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, especially those facing educational barriers.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
30.4 Hours per Week | Term Time Only (38 Weeks) Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm
Surrey Grade 4: £25,052-£26,825 FTE (£17,657-£18,907 pro rata)
At Thamesmead, we believe every student deserves a sense of belonging, purpose and the opportunity to succeed. We are seeking a compassionate, resilient and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join our innovative STEP (Support, Transition and Engagement Programme) Reintegration Hub. This is a unique opportunity to work with a small group of vulnerable students who may be experiencing barriers to education relating to social, emotional, mental health, attendance or SEND needs.
As part of the STEP team, you will play a vital role in helping students rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning and successfully transition back into mainstream school life.
What makes this role special?
STEP is more than a support provision - it is a place where relationships come first. We provide a safe, structured and nurturing environment where students can develop resilience, regulate emotions, improve attendance and experience success both academically and personally. You will work closely with students on a one-to-one basis and in small groups, supporting them to overcome challenges, celebrate achievements and take positive steps towards their future.
We are looking for someone who:
- Is passionate about supporting vulnerable young people to thrive.
- Builds positive, trusting relationships with students.
- Has experience working with children or young people, particularly those with SEND, SEMH or attendance challenges.
- Understands the importance of nurture, inclusion and emotional wellbeing.
- Remains calm, patient and solution-focused when faced with challenges.
- Believes that every behaviour is a form of communication.
- Can work collaboratively as part of a dedicated and supportive team.
- Has high expectations and a genuine commitment to helping students achieve success.
In this role you will:
- Support students' academic, emotional and social development.
- Deliver targeted interventions and personalised learning activities.
- Help students develop confidence, resilience and independence.
- Contribute to reintegration planning and transition support.
- Work closely with families, pastoral teams, SEND staff and external agencies.
- Promote positive behaviour, engagement and attendance.
- Help create a calm, predictable and nurturing learning environment.
What we offer:
- The opportunity to make a lasting difference to young people's lives.
- A supportive and forward-thinking school community.
- High-quality professional development and training.
- Opportunities to develop expertise in trauma-informed practice, SEND, emotional regulation and reintegration support.
- A dedicated team committed to inclusion, belonging and student success.
If you are passionate about helping young people overcome barriers and believe that every student deserves the chance to flourish, we would love to hear from you. Join us and help transform lives through support, transition and engagement.
Teaching Assistant - STEP Reintegration Hub employer: Thamesmead School
At Thamesmead, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for both our students and staff. As a Teaching Assistant in the STEP Reintegration Hub, you will benefit from high-quality professional development opportunities, a supportive team culture, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable young people. Join us in a role that not only values your contributions but also encourages personal and professional growth within a forward-thinking school community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - STEP Reintegration Hub
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Dive headfirst into community events and social work fairs in your area. These are great opportunities to connect with potential employers like Thamesmead School, grab some insider info, and showcase your passion for social work. Plus, meeting people face-to-face can really make you stand out!
✨Join Social Work Networks
Tap into social work networks and online communities, like local charities and organisations. Engaging in discussions or volunteering can help you build a strong reputation and could lead to part-time roles just like the one at Thamesmead School. The connections you make could be the key to landing your next opportunity!
✨Make Your Passion Shine
When approaching part-time roles, be sure to highlight your passion for social issues in conversations and informal chats. Bring your experiences to life through storytelling – this can resonate well with organisations looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference!
✨Keep an Eye on Local Job Boards
Part-time roles in social work might not always be advertised in the usual places. Keep checking local job boards or community centres for openings, and don't hesitate to apply directly through Thamesmead School's website – we love seeing proactive candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - STEP Reintegration Hub
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Work:In your cover letter, let your passion for social work shine through. Talk about why you're drawn to this field and how you've been involved in community service or support roles. We want to see your commitment and the heart you bring to the table!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to spotlight any hands-on experience you have! Whether it's internships, volunteering, or relevant coursework, detail how your past experiences relate to the role at Thamesmead School. We love seeing candidates who have practical skills and a real understanding of social issues.
Certificates and Training Matter:If you've got any relevant certifications or training specific to social work (like safeguarding training or counselling qualifications), don’t forget to include these in your CV! These details can set you apart and show us you’re serious about your professional development.
Be Flexible with Your Availability:Since this is a part-time role, explain your availability clearly in your application. Let us know when you can start and how many hours you’re looking to work. Being upfront about your schedule will help us see how you fit into the team at Thamesmead School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thamesmead School
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
In social work, it's all about your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share specific experiences that highlight your passion for helping others, whether that's through volunteering, placements, or personal stories. We want to see that genuine drive during your chat with Thamesmead School.
✨Know Your Social Work Theories
You might be quizzed on social work theories or models that inform your practice, like the person-in-environment approach. Brush up on these concepts and be prepared to discuss how you'd apply them in a practical setting. This could be a game changer in your interview for a Teaching Assistant - STEP Reintegration Hub at Thamesmead School.
✨Flexibility and Availability are Key
As you're going for a part-time role, highlight your flexibility and how it would fit with the organisation's needs. Have examples ready that demonstrate your availability for various shifts or urgent situations—that's just gold for a social work role.
✨Prepare for a Situation-Based Discussion
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate how you'd handle specific situations with clients or stakeholders. Think of a couple of real-life scenarios you've encountered and articulate your thought process. This will show Thamesmead School that you're ready to hit the ground running in the Teaching Assistant - STEP Reintegration Hub role.
