Teaching Assistant – SEND & Student Support (Island Community)

Teaching Assistant – SEND & Student Support (Island Community)

Full-Time 31650 - 43607 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The Five Islands Academy

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support students with learning needs in a nurturing environment.
  • Company: Join the Five Islands Academy, a supportive island community.
  • Benefits: Gain valuable experience and contribute to student success.
  • Other info: Start your journey in education with us in September 2026.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills.
  • Qualifications: Patient, child-centred approach; Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE.

The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.

The Five Islands Academy is looking for an enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join our supportive island community starting September 2026. Located at our St Martin’s Base, you will work closely with the Lead Teacher to provide one-to-one and small group learning support.

The ideal candidate will have a patient and child-centred approach, experience with SEND preferred, and must hold a Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths GCSE. Join us in fostering a nurturing environment for all learners.

Teaching Assistant – SEND & Student Support (Island Community) employer: The Five Islands Academy

The Five Islands Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and nurturing work environment, perfect for those passionate about education and student support. With opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly in the SEND sector, our island community fosters collaboration and innovation among staff. Join us at our St Martin’s Base, where you can make a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying the unique advantages of island living.

The Five Islands Academy

Contact Details:

The Five Islands Academy Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant – SEND & Student Support (Island Community)

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at The Five Islands Academy. A friendly chat can give us insights into the school culture and might even lead to a recommendation.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your SEND knowledge. We want to show that we understand the needs of diverse learners and how to support them effectively.

Tip Number 3

Show off your passion for education! During the interview, share personal stories or experiences that highlight our commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for all learners.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows us you’re serious about joining our community.

We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant – SEND & Student Support (Island Community)

Enthusiasm
Patient Approach
Child-Centred Approach
Experience with SEND
One-to-One Support
Small Group Learning Support
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in supporting learners, especially those with SEND. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to fostering a nurturing environment.

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Teaching Assistant role. Mention your experience with SEND and how it aligns with our mission at Five Islands Academy. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are serious about joining our community.

Highlight Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your GCSEs in English and Maths! We’re looking for candidates who meet these essential criteria, so make sure they’re clearly stated in your application. It’s a great way to demonstrate that you have the foundational skills needed for the role.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the role and our community there!

How to prepare for a job interview at The Five Islands Academy

Know Your SEND Basics

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with common strategies and approaches used in supporting students with diverse needs. This will show the interviewers that you're not just enthusiastic but also well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the role.

Showcase Your Child-Centred Approach

During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully supported children in the past. Highlight your patience and adaptability, as these qualities are crucial for a Teaching Assistant. Think of specific situations where you made a positive impact on a child's learning experience.

Engage with the Community Spirit

Since this role is within a supportive island community, express your enthusiasm for being part of that environment. Talk about how you can contribute to fostering a nurturing atmosphere for all learners. Mention any previous experiences working in community settings or how you plan to engage with parents and other staff members.

Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific classroom situations. Prepare for role-play scenarios where you might need to demonstrate your approach to supporting a student with SEND. Practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.