At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students in our inclusion center and assist with teaching across sites.
- Company: Join Penbridge School, part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, dedicated to transforming education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training opportunities, and a focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant childcare qualification and good communication skills.
- Other info: Experience with SEN support is a plus, but not required. Early applications encouraged!
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
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. 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 seethe 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 UsFormally 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 of 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 of 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 Click herefor a Welcome from the Head of Penbridge Infant School AtPenbridgeSchool, 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 theyremainwith the same family of schools throughout their education.? We are one of five primary schools and one secondary school in Portsmouth tobenefitfrom Thinking Schools’ award-winning resources, curriculum, and collaboration opportunities.? Thinking Schools Academy Trust The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools consisting of both primary and secondary schools across Kent, Hampshire and Plymouth. We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. Education is the key to transforming life chances and we support and develop every member of our community to: Think about their Thinking Be their Best self Shape their success In this way we transform life chances What our Trust will offer you: 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: Expanded your skills and knowledge with opportunities for Trust-funded apprenticeships and training courses. Knowledge and Curriculum Sharing: Regular MAT meets alongside 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. Blue Light Card: School staff can now access the Blue Light Card for discounts across awide 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,benefittingfrom a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today! Early applications are encouragedand we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found. JBRP1_UKTJ
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust | Teaching Assistant 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 The Thinking Schools Academy Trust | Teaching Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize 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 the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in working with children, especially in a primary school setting. Even if you haven't worked directly in SEN support, showcasing your ability to inspire and motivate young learners can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your communication skills and how you can effectively engage with both students and teachers. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly will be crucial in this role, so practice explaining your ideas succinctly.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Thinking Schools Academy Trust and its values. Showing that you align with their mission to transform life chances through education will demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and the organization.
We think you need these skills to ace The Thinking Schools Academy Trust | Teaching Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Teaching Assistant position. Understand the specific responsibilities and requirements, especially regarding SEN support and communication skills.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly mention your Level 2 or higher childcare qualification in your CV and cover letter. If you have experience with SEN support, be sure to detail this as well.
Showcase Your Skills: Emphasize your communication, organizational, and ICT skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles or experiences.
Personalize Your Application: Tailor your cover letter to reflect your passion for supporting children with complex needs. Mention why you are drawn to Penbridge School and the Thinking Schools Academy Trust's ethos.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Thinking Schools Academy Trust
✨Show Your Passion for SEN Support
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children who have special educational needs. Share any relevant experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to helping these students thrive.
✨Highlight Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you have successfully communicated with both students and colleagues in the past, and provide examples of how you can adapt your communication style to meet individual needs.
✨Demonstrate Organizational Skills
As a Teaching Assistant, you'll need to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Prepare to talk about your organizational strategies and how you prioritize tasks to support the classroom effectively.
✨Familiarize Yourself with the Curriculum
Research the curriculum used at Penbridge School and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to it. Understanding the specific needs of the Rainbow Fish Inclusion Unit will show that you're proactive and well-prepared.