At a Glance
- Tasks: Support SEND pupils' learning and engagement while leading specific SEND initiatives.
- Company: A dedicated educational institution focused on inclusion and student success.
- Benefits: Protected CPD time, tailored training, and access to specialist SEND qualifications.
- Other info: Modern facilities and a supportive environment for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help them reach their full potential.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification or above with experience in supporting young people.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
We are seeking 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 across a range of contexts.
Responsibilities
- Support the learning, engagement, and progress of SEND pupils across a range of contexts.
- Lead on a specific area of SEND and work in partnership with teaching and other SEND team staff.
Candidate Profile
- 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.
Benefits
- Protected CPD time: 1 hour of dedicated professional learning every fortnight, ring‑fenced in your timetable.
- Meaningful development opportunities: Training 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: 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.
- Salary sacrifice schemes, including bicycle and electric vehicle leasing.
- Higher priority for your children's admission to this heavily oversubscribed school.
- Modern facilities with the latest display technology in every classroom.
Safeguarding & Background Checks
Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification, disclosure and banning service (DBS), medical, online and social media checks, prohibition of teaching, right to work, satisfactory references and suitability to work with children. Applicants must disclose any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) - SEMH employer: Whickham School
As a Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) at our institution, you will join a supportive and inclusive work culture dedicated to empowering young people with special educational needs. We offer tailored professional development opportunities, including protected CPD time and access to accredited training, ensuring your growth aligns with your career aspirations. Our modern facilities and commitment to safeguarding create an enriching environment where you can make a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying the benefits of salary sacrifice schemes and priority admissions for your children.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) - SEMH
✨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 opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND. Think about how you can showcase your passion for supporting young people and your experience in delivering targeted interventions. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In your discussions, highlight examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in the classroom. This will demonstrate your calm and proactive approach, which is crucial for a role like this.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Teaching Assistant (SEND) - SEMH
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting SEND pupils shine through in your application. We want to see how dedicated you are to helping young people achieve their full potential, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Senior Teaching Assistant role. We love it when candidates align their skills and experiences with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back!
Highlight Teamwork Skills:Since this role involves working closely with other staff and families, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've built strong relationships in previous roles, as we value a positive team player.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your details and get back to you quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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 around Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH). Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support students facing challenges, as this will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of examples where you've successfully worked with teachers, families, or other support staff. Highlight how you built strong relationships and contributed to a positive classroom environment, as this will demonstrate your ability to be a team player.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills under pressure. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might encounter with SEND pupils and how you would handle them. This will help you articulate your calm and proactive approach during the interview.
✨Commitment to Continuous Learning
Be ready to discuss your professional development and any training you've undertaken related to SEND. Show enthusiasm for ongoing learning and how you plan to utilise the training opportunities offered by the organisation to enhance your skills further.
