Lifeguard & Teaching Assistant for SEND

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

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.