Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEN School and College

We are excited to offer multiple opportunities for Teaching Assistants to join our dedicated team at an SEN school and college. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference and supporting students with complex needs in a therapeutic, education-focused environment.

The role of a Teaching Assistant is quite unique compared to mainstream settings. You will be supporting students aged 5-19 with severe social communication challenges, complex learning disabilities, and often challenging behaviours, to access a therapy-based curriculum. With your empathy, patience, and guidance, you will help students develop independence relative to their individual needs, equipping them for life beyond school or college.

What Will You Be Doing?

Supporting Students: You will work closely with students to support their learning in small classes (5-11 students), tailored to their ability and social needs rather than their age. Students follow personalised timetables that include core subjects like numeracy, literacy, and science, as well as life skills like cookery and gardening.
Adapting to Individual Needs: Many of our students use alternative forms of communication, such as Makaton, symbols, or communication aids, and lessons are often delivered using a multi-sensory approach. You will be a key part of helping these students communicate and engage in learning.
Supporting Emotional Well-being: The role can be challenging at times as students may experience frustration, anxiety, or emotional outbursts. Your role will involve helping them manage their emotions and behaviour in a supportive and understanding way.
Personal Care: Some of our students may require assistance with personal care. You will be provided with full training and support to carry out this task where necessary.

What Are We Looking For?

Empathy and Compassion: You don't need prior experience, but you must be caring, patient, and resilient. A positive, can-do attitude is essential.
Team Player: Working within a dedicated team, you will need to collaborate and communicate effectively with students, families, and professionals.
Flexibility: Each student's needs are different, so you will need to adapt your approach to suit each individual and handle challenging situations with common sense.
Literacy and Numeracy Skills: You will need to support students in their learning and also manage paperwork such as medication forms, risk assessments, and student records.

What We Offer:

Competitive Salary: Pro rata 18,469 - 19,206 (actual for 39 weeks) based on 36 hours per week. FTE equivalent 21,533 - 22,393. Once you complete the Teaching Assistant apprenticeship (fully funded), this can rise to 19,954 - 21,917 (pro-rata).
Career Progression: We offer clear career progression, with opportunities to apply for higher-level roles such as Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA).
Comprehensive Training and Support: You will receive training in safeguarding, autism, positive behaviour support, and Team Teach (positive behaviour support). As part of the apprenticeship program, you will also gain a nationally accredited TA qualification.
Retention Bonus: A 1,000 retention bonus is available, paid over time as you stay: 250 after 1 month, 250 after 1 year, and 500 after 18 months.
Employee Benefits:
Life assurance and medical cashplan (after qualifying period)
Team Teach training and annual refreshers
Free hot lunch provided by our in-house catering team during term time
Free on-site parking
Employee assistance service for you and your family (confidential support 24/7)
Regular support and one-on-one CPD tailored to your personal development
A Beautiful Location: The school is set in a peaceful 23-acre site in a semi-rural location on the edge of the Surrey Hills. While own transport is desirable, ample free parking is available on-site.

Hours of Work:

Monday: 08:30 - 16:00
Tuesday - Thursday: 08:30 - 16:15
Friday: 08:30 - 15:45
(Plus 30 minutes admin time)

What We Require:

A full-time commitment of 36 hours per week (we may be able to accommodate 3+ days per week).
Flexibility to provide personal care to students where needed (full training provided).

If you're ready to make a real difference in the lives of young people and develop your career in a supportive and rewarding environment, we'd love to hear from you! Please apply today.