Teaching Assistant (SEND)

Job Summary

Marsh Lane is a specialist Post-16 provision supporting young people aged 16–25 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and other additional learning needs.

We are seeking a compassionate, resilient and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistant to join our team. We offer our students three vocational pathways, Construction, Catering and Sport. We are seeking subject specific Teaching assistants to support our Catering and Construction pathways.

The successful candidate will play a key role in helping students access learning, develop confidence and independence, and achieve positive outcomes both in and beyond the classroom.

This role would particularly suit someone who understands the importance of trauma-informed practice and recognises that positive relationships, built on mutual respect, trust and consistency, are fundamental to supporting young people to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• Support students within small teaching groups (typically 3 students to 1 adult) to engage successfully in learning activities.

• Work alongside teachers to support the delivery of high-quality education and personalised learning programmes.

• Provide targeted 1:1 support where directed by teaching staff.

• Build positive, professional relationships that promote students' emotional wellbeing, confidence and resilience.

• Support students to access work experience placements, community impact projects and enrichment opportunities.

• Encourage the development of independence, social skills and employability skills.

• Help implement individual learning, behaviour and support plans.

• Support students to regulate emotions, overcome barriers to learning and engage positively with education.

• Work collaboratively with teachers, families and external professionals to ensure students receive appropriate support.

• Monitor and record student engagement, progress and wellbeing as required.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience working with young people, preferably within education, youth work, care or support settings.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to build trusting and respectful relationships with young people.

• A calm, patient and adaptable approach.

• Understanding of the impact of trauma, attachment and adverse childhood experiences on learning and behaviour.

• Commitment to inclusion and supporting students with additional needs.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Desirable

• Experience working with students with SEMH needs and/or Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

• Knowledge of trauma-informed approaches, restorative practice or therapeutic interventions.

• Relevant qualifications in education, youth work, social care or a related field.

• Experience supporting young people in work experience, employability or community-based activities.

Safeguarding Statement

Oaktree Education Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We follow robust Safer Recruitment practices. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced DBS check and the receipt of two satisfactory professional references.

Additional Information

Please note: The salary stated is based on a full-time equivalent (FTE).

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £26,436.80 per year

Benefits

• Company pension

• On-site parking

Education

• GCSE or equivalent (preferred)

Work Location

In person