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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special educational needs in a vibrant school environment.
- Company: Join Penbridge School, part of the innovative Thinking Schools Academy Trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and a focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Hold a relevant childcare qualification and possess strong communication skills.
- Other info: Early applications are encouraged; informal chats about the role are welcome.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 ÂŁ per year.
About The Role
Penbridge School is seeking to appoint a Teaching Assistant (SEN Provision) to work primarily within our inclusion centre, Rainbow Fish and across the Infants and Juniors sites as and when required.
This is a rewarding opportunity to work as part of a dedicated and supportive team, helping students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Rainbow Fish provides state-of-the-art facilities for children with complex cognition and learning difficulties aged between four and nine, who have an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP). The children work towards being able to integrate into mainstream for some learning, with a high level of support to meet their specific needs from the provision staff. Our curriculum centres on each child as an individual, looking at their starting points and next steps. Class sizes are up to 8 pupils.
What you will need to succeed:
For a full list of responsibilities please see the attached job description
- Provide teaching and learning to our students with the support of the Classroom Teacher
- Coaching children on a 1:1 or group basis
- Previous experience of working with young people to support their physical and mental wellbeing
- Excellent written and communication skills
- Educated to a minimum requirement of Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics
- You will have high levels of motivation, energy and commitment with a reflective approach to the role and the ability to work to build positive relationships with students and their parents/carers
- Participate in the Walking Bus between school sites as and when required
About Us
Formally known as Penhale Infant School and Newbridge Junior School, we officially joined together in September 2022 to form Penbridge Infants and Junior School. The infants site comprises a nursery with 24 places for funded 2-4 year olds and a 2-form entry Infant school with 180 children on the roll including 24 in our Rainbow Fish Inclusion Unit. The Juniors site comprises a 4-form entry school with 440 children on the roll.
“Pupils are happy and enjoy attending this welcoming school” – Ofsted 2022
Find out more about our story at: Ethos & Values, Penbridge School
At Penbridge School, we are a proud member of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust. This enables us to create a unique offer for children: an \”all-through\” educational journey in which they remain with the same family of schools throughout their education.
We are one of five primary schools and one secondary school in Portsmouth to benefit from Thinking Schools\’ award-winning resources, curriculum, and collaboration opportunities.
Thinking Schools Academy Trust
What our Trust will offer you:
- Competitive Pay Scales
- Pension Scheme Membership: Secure your future with membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Collaborative Support: Benefit from resources, mentoring, and school visits across the Trust.
- Training: Expand your skills and knowledge with opportunities for Trust-funded apprenticeships and training courses.
- Knowledge and Curriculum Sharing: Our regional hub model offers a network of collaboration for staff to share best practice.
- Cycle2Work Scheme: Salary sacrifice scheme to purchase a new bike with National Insurance savings.
- Staff Wellbeing Focus: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations, and eye care vouchers.
- TSTARS Staff Recognition: You will be part of our Staff Recognition Programme, with seasonal rewards for all staff.
- Refer a Friend: Spread the word and benefit financially from our Refer a Friend Scheme.
- TSAT Benefits portal: a one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including employee discounts, dental cover, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
- Store Discounts: Support staff have access to to the \”Discount for Teachers\” scheme that offers a huge range of money saving deals and vouchers.
- Blue Light Card: School staff can now access the Blue Light Card for discounts across a wide range of categories including holidays, cars, days out and much more!
Next steps:
If you are interested in working at our small and friendly school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today!
Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.
To arrange an informal telephone conversation or tour of the school please contact Sarah Arthur on Sarah.Arthur@penbridge.tsat.uk
recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
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Teaching Assistant (SEN Provision) employer: The Thinking Schools Academy Trust
Contact Detail:
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant (SEN Provision)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with complex cognition and learning difficulties. Understanding the challenges they face will help you demonstrate your commitment to supporting their development during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the ethos and values of Penbridge School and the Thinking Schools Academy Trust. Showing that you align with their mission and educational philosophy can set you apart as a candidate who truly understands the environment you'll be working in.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff members if possible. They can provide insights into the school culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview or informal conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your communication and organisational skills in detail. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported students or managed classroom dynamics, as these will be crucial in your role as a Teaching Assistant.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant (SEN Provision)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Teaching Assistant (SEN Provision) position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these needs.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to mention your Level 2 or higher childcare qualification prominently in your CV and cover letter. If you have any additional training or certifications related to SEN support, include those as well.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since effective communication is crucial for this role, provide examples in your application that demonstrate your strong oral and written communication skills. This could be through previous roles, volunteer work, or relevant experiences.
Express Your Passion for Education: In your cover letter, convey your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with special educational needs. Share any personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate your commitment to helping students reach their full potential.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Thinking Schools Academy Trust
✨Show Your Passion for SEN Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children who have special educational needs. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to supporting these students and helping them reach their full potential.
✨Demonstrate Effective Communication Skills
Since good communication is key in this role, be prepared to discuss how you would communicate with both students and teachers. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll need to manage various tasks simultaneously. Be ready to talk about how you stay organised, whether it's through planning lessons, managing classroom activities, or keeping track of student progress.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the School's Ethos
Research Penbridge School and its values before the interview. Understanding their approach to education and inclusion will help you align your answers with their mission and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team.
