At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teaching and learning for SEND pupils in a creative, child-led environment.
- Company: A nurturing rural preparatory school dedicated to early years education.
- Benefits: Small class sizes, ongoing support, professional development, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for training and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND pupils and a passion for child-led learning.
The predicted salary is between 12000 - 15000 € per year.
You will work as part of the EYFS department, supported by the Head of EYFS and two Teaching Assistants. You will work closely with the school SENCo, who will provide guidance with EHCP provision, assessment and multi‑agency liaison. This is a specialist‑style role within a mainstream independent setting. The role requires SEND experience. We expect the post‑holder to have high expectations for all learners. The successful candidate will support the teaching and learning of pupils day‑to‑day. They will also be required to contribute to and support the planning and delivery of the specialist curriculum, completing observations and planning activities for children in line with their developing needs. They should be a creative, team player who loves and understands child‑led learning. We are a rural preparatory school and nursery, offering a superb education to boys and girls aged 2 to 11 years.
Key Responsibilities
- Teaching & Provision
- Plan and deliver an adapted EYFS curriculum aligned to EHCP outcomes with support from the school SENCo
- Break long‑term targets into measurable short‑term steps
- Use structured, visual and multi‑sensory approaches
- Implement strategies such as Intensive Interaction, Attention Autism and visual communication systems
- Promote early communication and functional independence
- SEND & Safeguarding
- Lead implementation of EHCP Section F provision
- Monitor and evidence progress
- Contribute to Annual Reviews and professional meetings
- Maintain high supervision for pupils with limited danger awareness
- Be aware of health and safety issues and procedures including all safeguarding policies and procedures and implement school policy to ensure that these are dealt with promptly
- Undertake daily health and safety checks in learning spaces and report to maintenance any areas for attention
- Personal Care
- Support developmentally appropriate self‑care development in line with EYFS expectations
- Participate in nappy changing and intimate care, following safeguarding procedures
- Ensure consistent curriculum approaches, communication and reporting
- Liaise with SENCo, Head of EYFS and school leadership
- Parent Partnership
- Maintain strong home‑school communication
- Provide clear progress updates
Qualifications, Knowledge, Experience
Essential Criteria
- Experience supporting SEND pupils
- Confident using visual communication systems (PECS, Makaton, visual timetables) or willingness to undertake training
- willingness to undertake intimate care and nappy changing
- Calm, resilient and solution‑focused
Desirable Criteria
- Experience in a specialist or resource‑based setting
- Strong understanding of Autism and communication differences
- Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework
- Experience using Makaton for communication
- Understanding of the Sensory Engagement Model
- Experience supporting intimate needs and independence development
- Experience teaching or supporting pupils of KS1 age
- Experience working with EYFS‑aged children
- Full and relevant EYFS qualification at Level 3 or higher
- Experience planning and delivering effective, child‑centered continuous and enhanced provision (desired)
- Experience using online learning journals
- Recent Paediatric First Aid Certificate
Additional Requirements
- Able to work independently and as part of a team
- Able to follow instructions accurately and effectively
- Able to pass an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
Working Hours
The EYFS department currently operates during term time only (34 weeks a year + 5 days staff training). Looking for someone to work Thursdays and Fridays, 8.15am to 4.10pm each day. We would consider 3 days per week for the right candidate.
Location
The Old School Henstead Early Years Department
Benefits
- Very small class size
- Dedicated Teaching Assistants
- Ongoing SENCo support
- Professional development opportunities
- Nest pension plan
- 18 weeks of annual leave (to be taken during school holidays)
- On‑site parking and free school lunch
Safeguarding
The Old School Henstead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Enhanced DBS and references required.
Teaching Assistant (SEND) - Part Time in Beccles employer: The Independent Schools Council
The Old School Henstead is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing environment for Teaching Assistants in the EYFS department. With a strong focus on professional development, small class sizes, and dedicated support from the SENCo, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on children's lives. Located in a picturesque rural setting, the school provides a collaborative work culture that values creativity and child-led learning, ensuring a rewarding experience for all staff.
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (SEND) - Part Time in Beccles
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND and EYFS. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity! Bring examples of activities or lesson plans you've developed for SEND learners. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and passion for child-led learning.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (SEND) - Part Time in Beccles
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your SEND experience and how it aligns with the role. We want to see how your skills can support our EYFS department and contribute to child-led learning.
Showcase Your Creativity:Since we’re looking for a creative team player, don’t hesitate to share examples of how you’ve implemented engaging activities in your previous roles. Let us know how you can bring fun and innovative ideas to our curriculum!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your passion for supporting SEND pupils shines through without any fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) before the interview. Familiarise yourself with key terms like EHCP, Makaton, and Attention Autism. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Since this role involves planning and delivering a child-centred curriculum, think of some creative activities or strategies you've used in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've adapted learning for SEND pupils, as this will highlight your experience and innovative thinking.
✨Team Player Vibes
This position requires collaboration with the Head of EYFS and other Teaching Assistants. Prepare to discuss how you've worked effectively in a team before. Share instances where you’ve contributed to a positive team dynamic or supported colleagues in achieving common goals.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Strong home-school communication is key in this role. Think about how you’ve maintained relationships with parents or guardians in previous positions. Be ready to explain your approach to providing clear progress updates and how you ensure everyone is on the same page regarding a child's development.
