Learning Support Assistant / Teaching Assistant (SEND)

An incredible opportunity to be a part of the formation of a unique and brand new type of school. Wildwood Nature School is a non-profit, independent, nature-based primary school, committed to offering equal access for all families through free and reduced-fee places. Our ethos is all about supporting children’s well-being. We do this by: 

• spending most of the school day outdoors in nature 
• following the Forest School principles
• building a strong, inclusive community
• championing play and creativity 
• empowering children with a democratic approach

Please note: This job is to start ASAP, so we will be interviewing as we receive applications and may appoint before the closing date. Please apply ASAP if you're interested in the role.

The job

Our 1-1 SEND support practitioners play a key role. They support children who have significant additional needs that can’t be met by the regular school provision. 1-1 practitioners can, and do of course, interact and support other children, but their key job is to support the enjoyment, learning and development of the child to whom they’re assigned, through gaining a deep understanding of the person they are supporting and delivering a tailored, planned approach and programme of activities.

They do not have key children but could be asked to take responsibility for groups of children for parts of the day and cover a group for a whole day when a practitioner is absent.

This role is a very special opportunity to make a huge positive difference to the life of a child who, for a range of reasons, may be struggling that bit more than their peers to engage with and enjoy all that school and the world has to offer. We have lots of children who find that the outdoor setting supports their needs much better than an indoor space, which gives us an incredible opportunity to create a setting that integrates and celebrates neurodivergence.

This job is part-time, 16 hours per week over 3–4 days.

Fixed term to the end of July 2024, probably to continue into the following year, depending on EHCP funding.

Please read the job description for full details of the role and person specification.