Teaching Assistant

THE CASTLE SCHOOL; Theale; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff development

Wellbeing culture

Positive outcomes for pupils

Rewarding role

Job summary

The Castle School in Theale is seeking a compassionate Teaching Assistant to support pupils with SEMH needs. You will work with teachers and HLTA to create a safe, inclusive learning environment and help learners overcome barriers to achieve positive outcomes.

Key duties include supporting learning both in and out of class, reinforcing targets with individuals or small groups, monitoring progress and contributing to individual support plans.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children or young people, preferably in SEMH or SEND settings.
• Demonstrates patience, empathy and a genuine commitment to vulnerable pupils.
• Ability to build positive, professional relationships and work as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Support learning both in and out of the classroom to reinforce targets.
• Work with individuals and small groups to boost progress and independence.
• Promote positive behaviour and assist in self-regulation strategies.
• Deliver planned activities and interventions with focus on inclusion.
• Observe and record pupil progress and share with teaching staff.
• Collaborate with families and external professionals to meet needs.

Skills

Experience with SEMH pupils

Patience and empathy

Teamwork and collaboration

Behaviour support

Communication skills

Safeguarding awareness

Job description

MAKE A DIFFERNECE EVERY DAY We are looking for a compassionate, resilient and committed Teaching Assistant (TA) to join our specialist SEMH school. This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs to overcome barriers to learning, build confidence and achieve positive outcomes. Working alongside teachers and Higher Level Teaching Assistants, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, inclusive and engaging environment where every pupil is supported to reach their full potential. ABOUT THE ROLE As a Teaching Assistant, you will support the Teacher and/or Higher Level Teaching Assistant in the effective day-to-day operation of the classroom, helping to create a positive, inclusive and stimulating learning environment. You will work with individual pupils and small groups to support learning, achievement and personal development, while promoting independence, positive behaviour and high educational standards. The role involves encouraging pupils' social, emotional and academic progress, fostering their participation in all aspects of school life, and working collaboratively with colleagues as part of a professional team to ensure the best outcomes for all pupils. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting pupils' learning both in and out of the classroom
• Working with individuals and small groups to reinforce learning and help achieve their targets.
• Promoting positive behaviour and supporting pupils to develop self-regulation skills.
• Assisting in the delivery of planned learning activities and interventions.
• Helping to create a safe, engaging and inclusive learning environment.
• Encouraging pupils' independence, confidence and participation in school life.
• Supporting the social, emotional and personal development of pupils.
• Observing, monitoring and recording pupil progress and sharing information with teaching staff.
• Contributing to the implementation of individual support plans and behaviour strategies.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, support staff, families and external professionals to meet pupils' individual needs.

ABOUT YOU

• Has experience of working with children or young people, ideally within an SEMH, SEND or alternative provision setting.
• Demonstrates patience, empathy and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable pupils.
• Can build positive and professional relationships based on trust, consistency and respect.
• Has excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Is able to support learning effectively whilst maintaining high expectations of behaviour and achievement.
• Understands the importance of safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing.
• Can remain calm, confident and solution-focused in challenging situations.
• Is committed to helping pupils overcome barriers and celebrate success.

Physical and Emotional Demands

• Maintain sustained levels of concentration throughout the school day.
• Respond calmly, safely and effectively to challenging situations and behaviours.
• Support pupils who may present complex learning, behavioural, communication and emotional needs.
• Move regularly around the school site and participate in indoor and outdoor learning activities.
• Support pupils with mobility, independence and personal care needs where required.
• Undertake duties that may involve physical effort and prolonged periods of standing, walking or active supervision.
• Demonstrate patience, emotional resilience and the ability to maintain positive relationships in challenging circumstances.

What We Offer

The opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of young people.

• A supportive, skilled and dedicated staff team.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• A school culture that prioritises wellbeing, inclusion and positive outcomes for pupils.
• The chance to work in a rewarding and highly valued role.

If you are passionate about supporting young people with SEMH needs and are ready to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.

Further information about the school and an application pack can be found on the school website at https//thecastleschoolnewbury.org.uk or contact Cassy Clark via email [e-mail] Closing date: midnight 11 October

• Interviews: TBC

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience of working with children or young people, ideally within an SEMH, SEND or alternative provision setting.
• Demonstrates patience, empathy and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable pupils.
• Can build positive and professional relationships based on trust, consistency and respect.
• Has excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Is able to support learning effectively whilst maintaining high expectations of behaviour and achievement.
• Understands the importance of safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing.
• Can remain calm, confident and solution-focused in challenging situations.
• Is committed to helping pupils overcome barriers and celebrate success.