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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 Schoolis seeking to appoint aTeaching Assistant(SEN Provision)to work primarily within our inclusion centre, Rainbow Fish and across the Infants and Juniors sites as and when required.
You will need to hold a relevant L2 or higher childcare qualification, have good communication skills and excellent literacy and numeracy skills (GCSE or equivalent, Grade 4/C or above). Experience of providing SEN support in a primary school is desirable but not essential.
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.
Click herefor more information about Rainbow Fish unit.
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
- Ability to inspire and motivate
- Committed to supporting pupils to reach their full potential
- Effective communicator both orally and in writing
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills
- Good ICT skills
- Participate in the Walking Bus between school sites as and when required
- Understanding of the educational system and current developments
About Us
“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.
We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. That’s why we invest in our people and are recognised as the Multi Academy Trust Association Employer of the Year for 2025/2026, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils.
- Competitive Pay Scales
- Performance Related Pay: We operate a Professional Growth policy that allows us to reward staff who meet their objectives with additional pay for exceptional performance.
- 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 bepart 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 \’Discount for Teachers\’ scheme that offers a huge range of money saving deals and vouchers.
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 contactSarah Arthur onSarah.Arthur@penbridge.tsat.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 emailrecruitment@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.
