At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with complex learning needs and collaborate on tailored educational activities.
- Company: Join Orchard Community Trust, a values-driven multi-academy trust focused on inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive environment, professional development, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic special school with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of pupils with severe learning difficulties.
- Qualifications: Experience in education or care settings and NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching & Learning.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Join Orchard Community Trust (OCT), a values-led multi-academy trust committed to excellence, inclusion and strong community partnerships. We are seeking a skilled and motivated SEN Support Assistant to join our dedicated team. Our pupils have severe learning difficulties, and they are taught using a highly differentiated, individualised curriculum.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing support to pupils with complex learning needs, including communication difficulties, hearing and visual impairments, behavioural needs, complex physical/medical needs and sensory processing disorders.
- Collaborating with teaching staff to plan and deliver interventions and activities that meet individual educational requirements.
- Implementing new initiatives and attending relevant professional development courses to improve practice.
- Assisting with the implementation of child protection and health and safety policies.
Qualifications and experience:
- Experience working with pupils in an education and/or care setting.
- NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching & Learning or equivalent.
- Knowledge of relevant child protection and health and safety procedures.
- Willingness to undertake professional development and self-evaluation.
School details:
Day special school for pupils aged 3 to 19 years with cognitive and learning difficulties (PMLD, SLD & MLD, some with complex medical/physical needs). Current roll of 224 pupils. Hours of work – Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 8:45am – 3:35pm; Wednesday: 8:45am – 4:05pm; Friday: 8:25am – 3:35pm (32.5 hours per week, term time only).
We provide a supportive environment, high-quality CPD and a culture that values wellbeing, growth and positive working relationships.
Safeguarding: This position requires a criminal records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB). Applicants must complete a self-declaration of their criminal record and other safeguarding information. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Equality: The school is committed to equality of opportunity.
To apply, please visit this link. Once you have completed the application form, please email a cover letter and supporting information.
More information about our school can be found on our website.
SEN Support Assistant - Special School (PMLD/SLD) employer: WMJobs
Orchard Community Trust is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to inclusion and community partnerships, we offer a supportive environment where dedicated individuals can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with complex learning needs. Our focus on high-quality continuous professional development ensures that you will have ample opportunities to enhance your skills and contribute to innovative educational practices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Support Assistant - Special School (PMLD/SLD)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get an interview, let your enthusiasm for supporting pupils with complex needs shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for scenario questions! Think about how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with severe learning difficulties. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident.
✨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 amazing team at Orchard Community Trust.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Support Assistant - Special School (PMLD/SLD)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with pupils who have complex learning needs. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the SEN Support Assistant role.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through in your cover letter. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the lives of our pupils, so don’t hold back!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've got experience in education or care settings, make it front and centre in your application. We’re looking for candidates who understand the challenges and rewards of supporting pupils with severe learning difficulties.
Follow the Application Process:Remember to apply through our website and include all required documents. Once you’ve filled out the application form, send your cover letter and any supporting info as instructed. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs, particularly PMLD and SLD. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges these pupils face and think about how you can support them effectively. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and understand the unique environment you'll be working in.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience working with children who have complex learning needs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported pupils in the past, especially in terms of communication and behavioural strategies. This will help demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Since collaboration with teaching staff is key, think about how you can contribute to a team environment. Prepare examples of how you've worked with others to plan and deliver interventions or activities. Highlighting your teamwork skills will show that you’re a great fit for their dedicated team.
✨Commitment to Growth
Express your willingness to engage in professional development and self-evaluation. Mention any relevant courses or training you've undertaken and how they’ve improved your practice. This shows that you’re proactive about your own growth and committed to providing the best support for the pupils.
