At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead SEND support and enhance learning for students with SEMH needs.
- Company: Whickham School, a supportive and inclusive educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and modern facilities.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to student success and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification and experience working with young people.
The predicted salary is between 32061 - 34434 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a passionate, motivated and dedicated SEND Senior Teaching Assistant to lead on a specific area of SEND and work in partnership with teaching and other SEND Team staff. You will support the learning, engagement and progress of SEND pupils in a range of contexts.
We have recently undertaken a restructuring of our SEND provision, and the successful candidate will work in an exciting, fast-paced, highly motivated yet supportive environment. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards for behaviour, engagement and academic outcomes.
At Whickham School, we value all of our pupils and ensure that they are seen as individuals with differing interests, knowledge, skills and needs. We have an inclusive ethos and strive to increase the learning and participation of all pupils, ensuring access to an appropriate curriculum.
What makes Whickham School special?
- We're genuinely comprehensive – and our results prove it.
- At Whickham, inclusion isn't just a buzzword – it's at the heart of everything we do. We set high expectations for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, have SEND, or may face other barriers to learning or wellbeing. Our SEND learners don't just make progress – they thrive. In 2023/24, pupils with an EHCP achieved an average Progress 8 score of +0.67, significantly above national averages.
- Every member of staff at Whickham is committed to helping every pupil be the best they can be, regardless of their starting point or the barriers they face.
We invest in your growth:
- Protected CPD time: 1 hour of dedicated professional learning every fortnight, ring-fenced in your timetable.
- Meaningful development opportunities: Training that's tailored to your role and career aspirations, not generic box-ticking exercises.
- Accredited training packages: Access to nationally recognised qualifications and specialist training, including in adaptive teaching and supporting pupils with SEMH needs.
- Specialist SEND training: As a Senior teaching assistant working with SEMH pupils, you'll receive targeted training in trauma-informed practice, de-escalation strategies, and evidence-based interventions.
- Modern facilities that support great teaching.
- Our dedicated Inclusion Base provides a safe, supportive environment for targeted interventions.
- Well-resourced learning spaces designed with SEND pupils in mind.
- The practical benefits: Salary sacrifice schemes, including bicycle and electric vehicle leasing.
- Higher priority for your children's admission to our heavily oversubscribed school.
- Modern facilities with the latest display technology in every classroom.
Who you are:
- You are an enthusiastic and engaging Teaching Assistant who is passionate about supporting young people to achieve their full potential, with an understanding of the barriers some students face in education.
- A positive team player who can build strong relationships with students, staff and families, while working collaboratively within a classroom environment.
- Confident in delivering targeted support and interventions for students at risk of underachieving, using effective learning strategies and ICT skills.
- Calm, proactive and adaptable, with the ability to work effectively under pressure and respond positively to challenges.
- Committed to safeguarding, inclusion and maintaining high standards to improve outcomes and life chances for all students.
- Qualified to Level 3 or above, with experience of working with young people and a willingness to continue learning and developing professionally.
Ready to take the next step? Want to see it for yourself? We actively encourage visits. Contact Kate Spoor (Assistant Headteacher Inclusion) at kspoor@whickhamschool.org to arrange a time that works for you.
Application deadline: 9am on Monday 8th June
Submit to: recruitment@whickhamschool.org
Application forms: Download from Whickham School website where you will also find further details about the school and role.
Whickham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. We expect all staff to share our commitment to safeguarding.
What happens next?
- Download the full job description and person specification from our website.
- Visit us (optional but recommended) – see our facility and meet the team.
- Complete your application – tell us why you're the person to take SEND support to the next level.
- Submit by 9am on Monday 8th June.
- Interviews - Thursday 18th June.
- Questions? Contact Kate Spoor kspoor@whickhamschool.org.
Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) - SEMH in Gateshead employer: Whickham School
Whickham School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for both employees and students. With dedicated professional development opportunities, modern facilities, and a strong commitment to safeguarding and high educational standards, we empower our team to make a meaningful impact on the lives of SEND pupils. Join us in a vibrant community where your passion for education can truly thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) - SEMH in Gateshead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a good look at Whickham School's website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent achievements, especially in SEND. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about the specific challenges SEND pupils face and prepare examples of how you've supported students in similar situations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way. Share your passion for supporting young people and your commitment to inclusion. Let your personality shine through – they want to see the real you and how you'd fit into their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression. It shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) - SEMH in Gateshead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting SEND pupils shine through. We want to see how much you care about helping young people overcome barriers and achieve their potential.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Senior Teaching Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our commitment to inclusion and high standards.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out and are easy to read. Avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, you can find more info about the school and the role there too!
How to prepare for a job interview at Whickham School
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), especially in relation to Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH). Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to support students with these needs, as well as any relevant training you've undertaken.
✨Show Your Passion for Inclusion
Whickham School values inclusion at its core, so be prepared to share examples of how you've fostered an inclusive environment in your previous roles. Highlight your commitment to helping all students thrive, regardless of their starting point or challenges they face.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
As a Senior Teaching Assistant, you'll need to work closely with teachers and other staff. Share experiences that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively, build strong relationships, and contribute positively to a team dynamic. This will show that you're not just a lone wolf but a team player.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you'd handle specific situations involving SEND pupils. Think through potential scenarios, such as managing challenging behaviour or implementing targeted interventions, and prepare your responses. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and problem-solving skills.
