Teaching Assistant (SEN)/Learning Support Assistant

Are you a patient, nurturing, and flexible individual looking to make a real difference in the lives of young people with special educational needs?

We are a small, independent special school for pupils aged 11–16 with a range of additional needs. With class sizes of no more than 4 pupils, we are proud to offer a therapeutic, personalised learning environment where every young person is truly known and supported.

We are seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to work as part of a small, supportive team. You will support students both 1:1 and in small groups across a broad curriculum, including practical and therapeutic activities. Your role will involve:

Purpose of the Role

To provide learning and care support for pupils with special educational needs (SEN) to help work towards the outcomes on their education and health care plans (EHCPs).  This will involve working with teaching staff to plan and deliver activities and support the pupil with routines, transitions and behaviour management.

This is a crucial role, where you will be supporting our teaching and learning staff and contributing to the maintenance of a positive learning environment for all of our students.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Build a positive relationship with pupils, promoting high self-esteem, independence and social inclusion

• Promote high standards of behaviour, responding to incidents in line with the school’s behaviour policy and guidelines on physical intervention

• Assist with the development and delivery of individual education, support and care plans

• Support pupils with their social, emotional and mental health needs, escalating concerns where appropriate

• Demonstrate an informed and efficient approach to teaching and learning by adopting relevant strategies to support the work of the teacher and increase pupil achievement

• Contribute to the planning of differentiated learning activities for pupils, delivering activities both inside and outside the classroom

• Support the teaching of a broad and balanced curriculum aimed at helping the pupils achieve their full potential in all areas of learning

• Promote, support and facilitate inclusion by encouraging participation by the pupils in learning and extracurricular activities

• Use effective behaviour management strategies consistently in line with the school’s policy and procedures

• Organise and manage teaching space and resources to help maintain a stimulating and safe learning environment

• Use ICT skills to advance our pupil’s learning 

• Through observations, provide regular feedback to teachers on pupil’s progress and barriers to learning

• Monitor, record and report on progress and attainment

• Read and understand lesson plans shared prior to lessons, if available

• Share knowledge and understanding of the the pupils with other school staff and education, health and social care professionals, so that informed decision making can take place on intervention and provision

• Communicate effectively with other members of staff, pupils and parents/carers

• Keep other professionals accurately informed about performance, progress and any areas of concern

• Work collaboratively within the scope of the role, with teachers and other other colleagues

• Collaborate and work with colleagues and other relevant professionals within and beyond the school

• Develop effective personal relationships with colleagues

• Take full responsibility for your own training and development, completing work set and fully committing to learning opportunities

• Take opportunities to build the appropriate skills, qualifications, and/or experience needed for the role, with support from the school

• Take part in the annual appraisal process
  

We are looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in supporting children or young people with SEND/SEMH

• Flexible, patient, and creative in their approach

• A team player with strong communication skills

• Resilient, reliable, and calm under pressure

• Passionate about helping every young person reach their full potential

In return, we offer:

• Small class sizes (maximum 4 pupils)

• A therapeutic, child-centred environment

• Opportunities for training and professional development

• A genuine voice in shaping a growing curriculum and school community

• Supportive leadership and a welcoming team

• Early start and finish (7:30am – 3:30pm; pupils leave at 2:15pm)

If you're looking for a rewarding role where every day brings purpose and variety, we’d love to hear from you.

Informal enquiries can be made to Jennie Marinho, Head Teacher, jennie@newhorizon-academy.co.uk, 0121 448 3737

At New Horizon Academy we value the strength that comes from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.  We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.  We warmly welcome applications from individuals of all communities and walks of life.

Unfortunately we are not able to offer visa sponsorship for this role, at this time.