At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with special educational needs in a nurturing learning environment.
- Company: Woodpecker Hall Academy, part of North Star Community Trust, dedicated to educational excellence.
- Benefits: Supportive workplace, professional development, and a rewarding experience working with children.
- Other info: Join a caring team committed to inclusivity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a top-ranked school.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, Level 3 TA qualification, and a passion for helping children.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
Woodpecker Hall Academy is a wonderful primary school and nursery, and a proud member of North Star Community Trust, a family of schools united by the belief that we are Stronger Together. The Trust plays a vital role in the communities it serves, creating real, lasting change through education, opportunity and support. At Woodpecker Hall, the children are at the heart of everything we do. We believe every child deserves an excellent education in a safe, nurturing environment with staff who care deeply and go above and beyond. Our children consistently achieve some of the best results in the borough, with progress and attainment well above national averages. We are proud to be ranked in the top 5% of schools nationally and to have received a national Silver Award for Primary School of the Year.
We are looking for an enthusiastic SEND Teaching Assistant to join our SEN provision. In this role, you’ll work closely with teachers to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child feels valued and supported. You will also support children during break times and school activities, promote positive behaviour and self-esteem through praise and encouragement, and ensure the well-being and safety of all children at all times.
What we are looking for:
- A positive, caring attitude and a passion for working with children with special educational needs
- GCSE Grade 4 (C) in English and Maths
- Level 3 TA qualification or equivalent and SEND focus qualification or training highly desirable
- Experience in primary education and working with children with diverse learning needs
- Strong communication skills and team player
- Professional, patient and empathetic
What we offer:
We are committed to being a supportive, caring and rewarding place to work and learn, and to being an employer of choice. A full overview of our offer, including staff benefits, our People Plan and what our staff say about working with us, can be found in the supporting documents attached.
We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment. As part of our recruitment process, the successful candidate will be required to undergo safer recruitment checks, including enhanced clearance through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and any other pre-employment checks relevant to their role.
We are committed to fostering a positive and inclusive working culture that reflects our Trust's ethos of being ‘Stronger Together.’ The Trust is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all. It aims to create a working environment in which all individuals are able to make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment, and in which all decisions are based on merit.
Teaching Assistants (SEND) employer: Woodpecker Hall Primary Academy
Woodpecker Hall Academy is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for both staff and students. As part of the North Star Community Trust, we prioritise professional development and offer numerous opportunities for growth within our inclusive culture, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. Our commitment to excellence in education and community engagement makes us a rewarding place to work, where you can truly make a difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
Contact Details:
Woodpecker Hall Primary Academy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistants (SEND)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Woodpecker Hall Academy and its values. Understanding our ethos of being 'Stronger Together' will help you connect with us during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of our community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on social media or professional platforms. They can give you insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can be super helpful when you're preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to SEND and primary education. Think about your experiences and how they align with our mission to support children with diverse learning needs. The more you rehearse, the more confident you'll feel!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through My New Term. It’s the best way to ensure your application is seen by the right people and shows that you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at Woodpecker Hall.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistants (SEND)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives, especially those with special educational needs.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications. Mention any specific training or qualifications related to SEND, as this will show us you’re the right fit for our nurturing environment.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via My New Term on our website. This is the only way we accept applications, so make sure you follow this step to ensure we receive your details!
How to prepare for a job interview at Woodpecker Hall Primary Academy
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with different types of learning needs and how to support them. This will show that you're genuinely passionate about helping every child thrive.
✨Show Your Caring Side
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've supported children in the past. Highlight your positive, caring attitude and any specific strategies you've used to promote self-esteem and positive behaviour. This is key for a role where empathy is crucial.
✨Team Player Vibes
Woodpecker Hall Academy values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you work within a team. Share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with teachers or other staff members to create a nurturing environment. This will demonstrate that you can contribute to their 'Stronger Together' ethos.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to SEND and how they support their staff. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
