What skills and experience we're looking for
Essential Qualifications & Training
- GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above)
- Relevant Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or willingness to work towards)
- Evidence of continuous professional development, particularly in SEND and autism support
Experience
- Proven experience working as a Teaching Assistant or in a similar educational support role
- Demonstrable experience supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
- Experience working with pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
- Good understanding of autism and its impact on learning, communication, and social interaction
- Awareness of inclusive teaching practices and differentiation strategies
- Understanding of safeguarding procedures and child protection responsibilities
- Familiarity with behaviour management strategies, including positive behaviour support approaches
Skills & Abilities
- Ability to build positive, supportive relationships with pupils, staff, and parents/carers
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to adapt communication styles to meet individual pupil needs
- Skilled in supporting pupils' emotional regulation and promoting independence
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, as well as using initiative when requiredCompetence in supporting teaching and learning activities under the direction of a teacher
- Good organisational skills and ability to manage time effectively
Personal Qualities
- Patient, empathetic, and resilient approach to supporting pupils
- Commitment to inclusion and equality of opportunity
- Flexible and adaptable to meet the changing needs of pupils and the school environment
- Positive attitude and willingness to engage in further training and development
- Professional, reliable, and able to maintain confidentiality
- Training in autism-specific approaches (e.g. TEACCH, PECS, or similar strategies)
- Experience supporting sensory needs and using sensory regulation tools
- Experience of working with assistive technologies or alternative communication methods (e.g. AAC systems)
Additional Requirements
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
What the school offers its staff
- A committed and supportive leadership team
- Wonderful, motivated children
- A commitment to your future professional development
- Support from the whole community of our church school
- Support from The Spire Trust (currently in process of joining)
Commitment to safeguarding
Walkwood Church of England Middle School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful in obtaining this post you will be subject to a Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service and health screening. As part of our safer recruitment processes, if you are shortlisted for the post, we will carry out a social media account search.