At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support SEND pupils in their learning and engagement.
- Company: Whickham School, committed to inclusivity and high standards.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and help them reach their full potential.
- 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.
The ideal candidate is 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.
Further details can be found in the Job Advert, Job Description and Personal Specification. We actively encourage visits. Contact Kate Spoor (Assistant Headteacher Inclusion) at kspoor@whickhamschool.org to arrange a time that works for you or to discuss the role further. Application Forms should be submitted to recruitment@whickhamschool.org by 9am on Monday 8th June, with interviews scheduled for Thursday 18th June.
Senior SEND TA – Communication & Interaction Lead in Whickham employer: Whickham School
Whickham School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its staff within a supportive and inclusive environment. As a Senior Teaching Assistant, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of SEND pupils while collaborating with a dedicated team committed to high standards and positive outcomes. Our focus on professional development and a strong community ethos makes Whickham School a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior SEND TA – Communication & Interaction Lead in Whickham
✨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 or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its SEND provision. Understand their ethos and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see your passion for supporting young people shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of how you've successfully supported SEND students in the past. Whether it's through targeted interventions or building relationships, we love to hear about your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to our inclusive ethos.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior SEND TA – Communication & Interaction Lead in Whickham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting young people shine through in your application. Share specific examples of how you've helped students overcome barriers in their education, as this will resonate with us at StudySmarter.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that align with the role. We want to see how you can contribute to our inclusive ethos and support our SEND pupils effectively.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically so we can easily see your qualifications and experiences relevant to the position.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure everything is in order for review!
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). Understand the specific challenges that students face and be ready to discuss how you can support them. This will show your passion and commitment to helping young people achieve their full potential.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
As a Senior Teaching Assistant, you'll need to work closely with other staff and families. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to build strong relationships and work as part of a team, as this is crucial for creating an inclusive environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
In a fast-paced environment, being calm and adaptable is key. Think of situations where you've had to adjust your approach under pressure. Share these experiences during the interview to illustrate your proactive nature and ability to handle challenges effectively.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's SEND provision and how you can contribute to its success. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school’s ethos aligns with your values.
