Lifeguard / Teaching Assistant

The Cherwell School; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Full induction programme and CPD

Paid wellbeing days

On-site parking

LGPS (Local Government Pension)

Cycle to Work Scheme

Employee assistance programme

Refer-a-friend scheme (£500)

Strong school culture

Job summary

The Cherwell School is seeking a caring Lifeguard/Teaching Assistant to join our school team, supporting children with SEND and ensuring safe swimming sessions. You will supervise pupils, assist with learning activities and help build confidence and independence in a supportive, inclusive environment.

The role requires a calm, professional approach, strong swimming ability, and a commitment to safeguarding. Training and collaboration with staff will be provided.

Qualifications

• GCSEs in Maths and English (grade 4-9) or equivalent essential.
• Hold a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), or be willing to obtain the qualification.
• Hold a first-aid qualification, or be willing to undertake appropriate training.
• Have experience working with children or young people, preferably in a school or educational setting.
• Have good literacy, numeracy, ICT and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Act as the main lifeguard during swimming sessions, maintaining poolside safety and responding effectively to emergencies.
• Supervise pupils in and around the pool, ensuring safety procedures and pool rules are followed.
• Carry out regular poolside safety checks and help maintain a clean, safe swimming environment.
• Support pupils with learning activities, communication, emotional regulation and personal care.
• Help pupils develop confidence, independence and positive relationships.
• Adapt support to meet individual needs, including using signing and other communication systems where required.
• Support pupils with medical and complex care needs, following appropriate training and agreed procedures.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, swimming instructors and other professionals to deliver inclusive learning experiences.
• Assist with individual and small-group learning activities, following teacher planning and individual education programmes.
• Contribute to pupil progress records, assessments and reviews.
• Promote a safe, stimulating and supportive learning environment.

Skills

Caring and patient

Strong swimming ability

Experience with children

Calm under pressure

Relationship-building

ICT skills

Teamwork

Education

GCSEs in Maths and English (4-9)

First-aid qualification

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

Job description

Your Role

Valued . Independent . Enriched . Worthwhile

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs? We are seeking a caring, patient and enthusiastic Lifeguard / Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team at Kingfisher School.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), while also taking responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of pupils during swimming sessions.

Kingfisher School provides an exciting and well-designed learning environment for pupils aged 2-19, who have severe, complex or profound needs, including Autism. Part of The Propeller Academy Trust, our school is an amazing place where our dedicated team work together to offer the absolute best for our young people.

What we Offer

• Competitive salary
• Full induction programme and ongoing CPD, including specialist SEN training
• Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
• Flexible working options (part-time or job share considered)
• Local Government Pension (LGPS)
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Refer-a-friend scheme (earn up to £500)
• A strong, therapeutic and supportive school culture

About the Role

1. Act as the main lifeguard during swimming sessions, maintaining poolside safety and responding effectively to emergencies.
2. Supervise pupils in and around the pool, ensuring safety procedures and pool rules are followed.
3. Carry out regular poolside safety checks and help maintain a clean, safe swimming environment.
4. Support pupils with learning activities, communication, emotional regulation and personal care.
5. Help pupils develop confidence, independence and positive relationships.
6. Adapt support to meet individual needs, including using signing and other communication systems where required.
7. Support pupils with medical and complex care needs, following appropriate training and agreed procedures.
8. Work collaboratively with teachers, swimming instructors and other professionals to deliver inclusive learning experiences.
9. Assist with individual and small-group learning activities, following teacher planning and individual education programmes.
10. Contribute to pupil progress records, assessments and reviews.
11. Promote a safe, stimulating and supportive learning environment.

About You

1. Caring, patient and compassionate, with a genuine commitment to helping every pupil achieve their potential.
2. Confident in and around water, with strong swimming ability.
3. Hold a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ), or be willing to obtain the qualification.
4. Hold GCSEs or equivalent, including English and Mathematics at Grade 4/C or above.
5. Hold a first-aid qualification, or be willing to undertake appropriate training.
6. Have experience working with children or young people, preferably in a school or educational setting.
7. Have good literacy, numeracy, ICT and communication skills.
8. Be able to build positive relationships with children, young people and adults.
9. Be able to adapt support to meet individual needs, including those of pupils with complex learning needs and autism.
10. Remain calm, alert and professional, particularly in challenging or emergency situations.
11. Have strong organisational skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
12. Be reliable, responsible and safety-conscious, with a strong commitment to safeguarding, equality, inclusion and pupil wellbeing.
13. Be dedicated to promoting pupils' independence, confidence and self-esteem.

Qualifications

GCSEs in Maths and English (grade 4-9) or equivalent essential

Grade 4/C or equivalent

Safeguarding Information

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.