Teaching Assistant - New SEND Secondary Provision

Teaching Assistant - New SEN Provision - Secondary SEN SchoolBe part of something extraordinary! Join our groundbreaking new SEN school in Horsham and make a real difference in the lives of young people.Secondary SEN School, opening in 2025, is seeking a passionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join our growing team. We provide a nurturing and supportive environment for young people aged 11-16, offering a tailored National Curriculum delivered in small classes with a focus on meeting their sensory needs and supporting their emotional wellbeing.This is a unique opportunity to:

• Work alongside a dedicated clinical team: Collaborate with a Clinical Psychologist, OT, and SaLT, gaining valuable insights and experience in therapeutic approaches.
• Be part of an innovative school culture: Contribute to shaping a new, forward-thinking environment that prioritizes student well-being and success.
• Contribute to research: Participate in research projects focused on supporting neurodivergent students and the wider community.
• Make a lasting impact: Be at the heart of a school that will change the lives of many young people and their families.

What you'll do:

• Provide individual and group support: Foster a sense of safety and belonging for students with a range of neurodevelopmental needs.
• Deliver therapeutic interventions: Collaborate with the clinical team to implement personalized learning plans.
• Support in the classroom: Assist with lessons, ensuring a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Communicate effectively: Work closely with teachers, therapists, and parents to ensure consistent communication.
• Be part of a vibrant school community: Support a wide range of enrichment activities, including outdoor experiences, sports, visits, and community projects.

We are looking for candidates who:

• Have a passion for working with young people with SEND.
• Possess a qualification or genuine interest in psychology.
• Have experience supporting neurodivergent students in a teaching role (or demonstrate strong potential to learn quickly).
• Are resourceful, resilient, and possess a growth mindset.
• Have a good level of education and strong communication skills.

Essential Requirements:

• GCSE Maths and English Language at Grade 4 or equivalent.
• Working towards Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools or equivalent.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with IT skills to support student learning.

* Empathy and resilience to work with young people who may experience high anxiety and various mental health challenges.* Commitment to becoming a neuro-informed and neuro-affirmative practitioner.Desirable Requirements:* A Psychology qualification.We offer:

• Small classes with the opportunity to build strong relationships with students.

* Significant training and development opportunities to enhance your skills.* A focus on safeguarding, pastoral care, and the overall well-being of all students. * A collaborative and supportive environment for professional growth. * The chance to work with, and learn from, an onsite clinical team.* Opportunities to be involved in research that will support our students and the wider neurodivergent community.This is an exciting time to be part of Aurora, and this is a unique career opportunity to make your mark on our growing services. The expectation for this role is high, but so are the rewards! If you are interested, we strongly recommend you contact us to arrange an informal talk with the Headteacher who can explain the role in full. Our priority is appointing a person with the right mindset, potential, and pastoral approach.What's on offer?

• Training and Development: We believe that learning and development should not be limited to just the children and young people we support. We offer a wide range of programmes and opportunities to all our employees to improve your skills and further your career.
• Perkbox: Save money on your bills with this fantastic benefit! Perkbox is a free app that gives you deals and discounts on things like groceries, phone plans, internet, eating out, gym memberships, insurance, and more. You can also use Perkbox for our cycle to work scheme and car scheme.
• Competitive Pay and Reward: We offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including Enhanced Annual Leave, Company Sick Pay, Enhanced Pension Scheme, and Life Assurance.
• UK Health Cash Plan: This plan helps cover your day-to-day healthcare expenses, such as optician and dental bills. You and your children are covered, and you can choose to add a partner to the plan.
• Employee Assistance Programme: We prioritize your health and well-being. We offer support for a wide variety of issues, including online tools, information, and a freephone counselling service available 24/7.
• Refer a friend for £1,000: We'll reward you for recommending friends and family to join the company (terms apply).

How to Apply:Click Apply or contact to get an application form. Successful applicants will be subject to pre-employment safeguarding checks including an enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check.