Teaching Assistant Level 1

Firwood Special School; Bolton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Supportive leadership

Happy workplace

Strong community links

Job summary

Firwood High School in Bolton is seeking an outstanding Teaching Assistant Level 1 to support pupils with complex learning needs as part of our SEND provision.

You will be enthusiastic about developing skills to work with students with SEN, commit to weekly CPD and contribute to a nurturing, high-quality learning environment. The role offers a permanent contract, 32.5 hours per week during term time.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting pupils with SEN.
• Willingness to undertake CPD and training.
• Commitment to a positive, inclusive classroom environment.

Responsibilities

• Support learning for pupils with complex needs.
• Assist in delivering structured activities and routines.
• Contribute to safeguarding and well-being of students.

Skills

Teaching Assistant Level 1

Student support

SEN awareness

Job description

FIRWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
“Learning without Limits”

Headteacher: Carl Heatley

Teaching Assistant Level 1

Firwood High School is a successful 11-19 special school meeting the needs of young people with complex learning difficulties. We are also part of the Woodbridge Trust working closely with Ladywood Primary Special School, Woodbridge SEND Services and our partner Woodbridge College our Post 19 provision.

Due to the rapid growth & expansion of our school and increasing student numbers, we are now seeking to appoint an outstanding Teaching Assistant Level 1 who is willing to ‘go the extra mile’ and is passionate about supporting student’s learning with a range of special educational needs.

Applicants should be enthusiastic about the development of their skills to work effectively with students with special educational needs and a desire to better their knowledge and understanding of an area within this forum.

We will offer you:

• A challenging yet rewarding working environment working with inspirational young people
• Professional development to support you in your career
• Hardworking, dedicated, professional and enthusiastic staff
• The benefits of working in an innovative and forward-thinking school
• Supportive leadership and real opportunities to develop as a leader
• A genuinely happy and caring place to work
• Strong links with the community
• High standard facilities

Contract: Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Grade D, Point 6-11 (£20,193.14 - £21,865.94)
Working Hours: 32.5 hrs per week, Term Time & 5 days (part time may be considered for the right candidate must be able to commit to weekly CPD until 4:30pm on Wednesdays and until 4.00pm Mondays)

Firwood is an exciting place to be and if you are a team player with a commitment to the highest quality provision for pupils with SEN then we would like to hear from you.

As a Trust we are committed to recognising and transferring your continuous service record if you are currently employed from within Bolton LA.

Closing Date for applications: Midnight Sunday 27th September 2026
Shortlisting: Week commencing 28th September 2026
Interview Date: 8th October 2026

Informal visits to school are most welcome by arrangement with Helen Penketh. Please call on 01204 333044.

The school is committed to safer recruitment practice and pre-employment checks will be
undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.