Teaching Assistant - Supporting a child with SEND

Teaching Assistant - Supporting a child with SEND: working 1:1 Monday - Friday 22.5 hours per week: 08.30 - 13.00 NJC Scale Level 2A Term Time Only and 5 Training Days per academic year Fixed Term Contract Initially: asap - 31.08.2027 Visits to the school are strongly recommended.

Applications will be considered on receipt and interviews conducted accordingly. The vacancy will close on appointment of a suitable candidate.

The children and staff at Haynes Lower School are looking for a talented and caring Teaching Assistant to support our children with SEND to join our wonderful school. Look no further! We are just what you are looking for! A keen interest and desire to support a child with SEND is essential.

About Us:

Nestled in the heart of a welcoming and friendly Central Bedfordshire village, Haynes Lower School and Nursery is a small, nurturing Lower School that prides itself on providing a safe, welcoming, and creative environment for all our children. Our close-knit team of staff work together to ensure each child is encouraged to grow, explore, and develop to their fullest potential. We are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching Assistant to support our children with SEND to join our school, to join our passionate team and make a positive impact on the next generation.

The Role:

A dedicated, passionate, and knowledgeable Teaching Assistant (TA) in a lower school plays a vital role in supporting both children and teachers, helping to create a positive and effective learning environment. Their responsibilities extend beyond basic classroom assistance—they act as mentors, facilitators, and caretakers, ensuring that every young learner receive the guidance they need to succeed.

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Supporting Learning

• Works closely with children, providing individualised support to those who need extra help with Literacy, Numeracy, Emotional Well-Being, Mental Health Needs or other subjects.
• Encourages and motivates children, fostering confidence and independence in their learning.
• Adapts teaching materials to suit different learning styles and abilities. 2. Assisting the Classroom Teacher

• Helps with lesson planning and preparation; ensuring materials and resources are ready for activities.
• Supports behaviour management, maintaining a positive and structured classroom atmosphere.
• Provides feedback to the teacher about the children’s progress and any challenges observed. 3. Creating an Engaging Learning Environment

• Encourages curiosity and enthusiasm for learning through interactive activities.
• Uses creative strategies to make lessons fun and accessible for all children.
• Supports social and emotional development by fostering kindness, empathy, and teamwork. 4. Ensuring Student Well-being

• Acts as a caring and approachable role model for children, offering emotional support when needed.
• Helps create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing classroom atmosphere where every child feels valued.
• Observes children for any signs of distress or difficulties and communicates concerns to teachers or parents. 5. Promoting Positive Classroom Culture

• Models respectful and positive behaviour, reinforcing the school’s values.
• Encourages collaboration and good social skills among children.
• Helps manage transitions between activities smoothly, reducing disruptions. A passionate TA brings energy and commitment, ensuring that every child receives the attention and support they need to thrive. A knowledgeable TA understands child development, different learning strategies, and classroom management techniques, making them an invaluable asset to the lower school setting. Ultimately, a dedicated teaching assistant contributes significantly to shaping a child's early learning experiences, laying the foundation for future academic and personal success.

Why Join Us?

• A highly supportive and friendly team of staff.
• The opportunity to work in a beautiful, village school with strong community links.
• Ongoing professional development and career progression.
• A chance to make a real difference in the lives of young children.
• A warm, inclusive school culture where every member of staff is valued.
• A strong values-based education shown by all members of our community.
• A supportive Management Team and Governing Body. Applications will be considered on receipt and interviews conducted accordingly. Early application is recommended and the vacancy will close on appointment of a suitable candidate. Previous applicants need not apply.

Safeguarding Statement:

Haynes Lower School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). CVs will not be accepted for any posts based in school. We are an Equal Opportunities employer. As part of the shortlisting process, we will carry out an online search as part of our due diligence for shortlisted candidates.