SEND Teaching Assistant Apprentice

LMP-Group; South Ockendon; On-site; GBP 9,100 - 13,000; Full time

Job summary

Beacon Hill Academy in South Ockendon seeks a Teaching Assistant Apprentice to gain hands-on experience in a special academy for pupils aged 2-19 with severe and complex learning difficulties. Start date is September 2026, with interviews in early September.

The role offers £8.00 per hour, 31.25 hours/week, and an 18-month programme. You will receive online training with a dedicated tutor to achieve a Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship, with potential for full-time employment on

Qualifications

• GCSEs in English and Maths at grades 4–9 (A*–C) required

Responsibilities

• Support pupils on a one-to-one basis and in small groups across a range of learning activities
• Assist in promoting pupils’ physical, emotional, and educational development
• Help implement individual learning programmes and therapy plans under supervision
• Support pupils with communication needs using strategies such as Signalong and specialist ICT
• Assist with personal care, feeding programmes, and mobility (including manual handling where trained)
• Support the use of specialist equipment and ensure it is maintained and used safely
• Promote positive behaviour in line with the Academy’s policies and individual support plans
• Monitor and record pupil progress, providing feedback to teaching staff
• Assist in preparing classroom resources and maintaining a stimulating learning environment
• Supervise pupils during break times, activities, and educational visits
• Support pupils in accessing community-based learning and life skills activities
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other professionals
• Safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils at all times

Skills

Patience

Enthusiastic

Team player

Verbal communication

Active listening

IT skills

Interpersonal skills

Following instructions

Education

GCSEs English & Maths

Job description

SEND Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship at Beacon Hill Academy

Please note, this role is to start in September 2026, interviews will take place Early September

Are you passionate about education and eager to make a difference in students’ lives? Our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship offers you a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic school environment while earning a qualification that will kickstart your career in education!

We are an “Outstanding” special academy for pupils aged 2-19 who have severe and complex learning difficulties. All of our pupils have different strengths and needs and every pupil is supported here to follow
their own personal learning adventure to help them to succeed.

Pupils, parents, families, school staff and other professionals all work together to plan and deliver excitingand challenging learning activities for everyone.

Apprenticeship Overview:

• Salary: £8.00 an hour, Automatic pay increase after one year on programme for 19+ year olds
• Working Week: Monday- Friday 8.45am - 3.30pm (30-minute lunch break)
• Hours: 31.25 hours per week
• Duration: 18 months
• Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship standard qualification
• Online training supported by our dedicated tutor
• Location: Beacon Hill Academy, Erriff Drive,South Ockendon, Essex, RM155AY
• Website: https://beaconhill.thurrock.sch.uk/

As a Teaching Assistant Apprentice, you will:

• Support pupils on a one-to-one basis and in small groups across a range of learning activities
• Assist in promoting pupils’ physical, emotional, and educational development
• Help implement individual learning programmes and therapy plans under supervision
• Support pupils with communication needs using strategies such as Signalong and specialist ICT
• Assist with personal care, feeding programmes, and mobility (including manual handling where trained)
• Support the use of specialist equipment and ensure it is maintained and used safely
• Promote positive behaviour in line with the Academy’s policies and individual support plans
• Monitor and record pupil progress, providing feedback to teaching staff
• Assist in preparing classroom resources and maintaining a stimulating learning environment
• Supervise pupils during break times, activities, and educational visits
• Support pupils in accessing community-based learning and life skills activities
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other professionals
• Safeguard and promote the welfare of all pupils at all times

Qualifications:

• GCSEs in English and Maths at grades 4–9 (A*–C) required

Skills and Personal Qualities:

• Patience, sensitivity, and a calm, caring nature
• Enthusiastic about supporting children's learning and development
• Flexible, adaptable, and a team player
• Strong verbal communication skills??
• Good active listening and interpersonal skills
• Ability to follow instructions and use initiative
• Confident using basic IT systems or handheld devices
• Interest in education and understanding people’s behaviours and needs

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

The successful candidate will obtain a Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship standard qualification.
Each apprentice will have their own dedicated tutor who will conduct monthly remote tutorials and reviews, providing continuous support throughout the apprenticeship program. Depending on the apprentice’s needs, the frequency of these sessions may vary.

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Potential full-time employment for the right candidate upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Pre‑employment checks. Please be aware that upon a successful offer of employment, the company completes digitalised right-to-work checks and DBS applications via an external provider - 'Matrix Screening'. The company also completes an internal online social media search, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.

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