Over 16 Teaching Assistant

GSL Education; Poole; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education is seeking a passionate Over 16 Teaching Assistant (TA) to support students with Special Educational Needs at a specialist school in Poole. This full-time, permanent role involves assisting with vocational activities and promoting independence, ideal for individuals with a background in vocational subjects.

Benefits

Ongoing CPD and training opportunities

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience supporting young people with SEN in practical environments.
• Interest in vocational subjects like horticulture or animal care.

Responsibilities

• Support vocational learning activities for students aged 16-25+.
• Provide individualised SEN support based on learning goals.
• Promote independence and employability skills among students.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Commitment to Safeguarding

Job description

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Job Title: Over 16 Teaching Assistant (TA)
Location: Poole
Salary: £13.68 - £16.12 per hour (Depending on experience)
Start Date: Immediate or September 2025
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Are you passionate about supporting young adults with additional needs to thrive in their education and independence? GSL Education are delighted to be recruiting for a Teaching Assistant (Post-16) to join a welcoming and inclusive specialist school in Poole.

About the School: The school is an education setting based for 16 – 25+ years old with Special Educational Needs. It is based on 350 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside. The school operate enterprise activities and vocational teaching methods to bridge the gap between education and employment for young people and adults with SEN in Dorset and the local area. The school focuses on vocations like horticulture, agriculture, equine skills and animal care as well as many more, to enrich the lives and education of its pupils.

Responsibilities:

• Support Vocational Learning Activities – Assist students in hands-on, practical sessions such as horticulture, agriculture, equine care, and animal handling, ensuring safety, engagement, and skill development.
• Promote Independence and Employability Skills – Encourage and guide students in building real-world skills to help bridge the gap between education and employment, focusing on confidence, teamwork, and task ownership.
• Provide Individualised SEN Support – Work closely with learners aged 16–25+ with a range of special educational needs, delivering tailored support based on EHCP goals and individual learning plans.
• Facilitate Engagement in Enterprise Projects – Help students participate in enterprise-based initiatives, fostering entrepreneurial thinking and practical experience in a real-world context.
• Collaborate with Staff Across Vocational Settings - Liaise with tutors, therapists, and vocational instructors to ensure a consistent, person-centred approach that supports both academic and life skills progression.

Requirements:

• Experience Supporting Young People with SEN – Proven experience or strong understanding of working with individuals aged 16–25+ with special educational needs, particularly in a practical, hands-on learning environment.
• Interest or Background in Vocational Subjects – A genuine interest – or previous experience – in areas such as horticulture, agriculture, equine care, or animal handling to support learners in their vocational training.
• Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills – Ability to build positive, respectful relationships with learners and staff, adapting communication to meet individual needs and encourage engagement.
• Proactive and Flexible Approach – Willingness to support learners across a range of vocational activities, indoors and outdoors, and adapt to a varied, dynamic day-to-day environment.
• Valid UK Driving Licence (Desirable) – Due to the rural location and the nature of off-site activities, having a full UK driving licence and willingness to drive students when required is highly desirable.
• Enhanced DBS - An Enhanced DBS registered on the update service or willingness to apply.

What We Offer:

• A fulfilling and rewarding role within a supportive and specialist post-16 environment.
• Ongoing CPD and training opportunities.
• Supportive team environment.

If you are passionate about supporting students and looking to gain valuable experience, apply now to join GSL Education as an Over 16 Teaching Assistant (TA) in Poole.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection, and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service or completing an application for a new check.

As an ethical, inclusive, and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.

To apply for the Over 16 Teaching Assistant (TA), click ‘apply now’ and submit your most recent CV. One of our dedicated consultants will be in touch soon!