Teaching Assistant

Southfield School is a SEN Primary setting, and due to the demand for SEN spaces for this age group, we are finding ourselves rapidly growing with a huge waiting list.

Southfield not just cares about the children, but about the staff too, making it a great place to work. We have a bright and spacious comfortable break out area for our teachers and support staff, dedicated large PPA room, and a fully equipped functioning kitchen too.

By providing a positive work environment brings out the best in our teachers. We support training, career development, and your passions.

You’ll get free parking, free hot drinks, ongoing support, and a great team. Read on to find out more about the role itself.

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated Teaching Assistant
, preferably with SEN experience, (but not essential), who would love the opportunity to make an impact on the teaching and learning at Southfield School.

The successful candidate will work in small classes of children who are not yet working at age related expectations. All pupils have an EHCP, which often states a diagnosis of Autism and associated Speech, Language and Communication needs. Children may demonstrate challenging behaviours.

Southfield School is ambitious and committed to the personal development of all staff. There are excellent opportunities for high-quality CPD and we are keen to support you in your development.

In return, you will benefit from working with a dedicated team of staff focused on delivering outstanding learning. You will be actively-encouraged to give your input, as we make significant improvements within the school.

The Teaching Assistant will work under the direction of a teacher in whole class, group, or individual situations. They will have some basic knowledge of specialist communication skills e.g., Makaton and PECS. There will be a need to interpret information or situations and to solve them according to school policy and to refer more complex problems to the class teacher. All tasks will be carried out within recognised procedures or guidelines and the teacher will be available for support or guidance.

Our classes are no bigger than 15 children to enable a better environment for our children’s learning.

• Work with pupils on specific tasks in small group or individual situations as required by the teacher
• Ensure that all personal equipment for pupils is up to date and inform the teacher of any requirements
• Support pupils according to the school policy, pupils’ needs and their risk assessments.
• Follow approved strategies outlined in Behaviour Support Plans and report any significant changes in behaviour to the teacher
• Complete accurate records on pupils’ progress and achievement in accordance with agreed procedures

• Assist the teacher to ensure that the aims and objectives of the school are achieved
• Prepare materials, set out equipment, keep equipment sorted and tidy. Report any broken items
• Supervise individual and small groups of pupils
• Supervise pupils on playground/lunch break as part of a team
• Undertake any photocopying or other administrative tasks that may be required
• Put up wall displays etc. as directed by the class teacher
• Produce teaching aids and materials as required by the class teacher

• Use computer programs and other ICT equipment to support students’ learning as appropriate.
• Use basic Makaton signs and PECS
• Undertake tasks to support the curriculum and assist with events connected to the curriculum e.g., Sports Day, Multicultural events, Swimming etc.
• Support the implementation of Government and school initiatives under the direction of the class teachers.

• Assist in general cleaning duties to maintain a safe and caring learning environment.
• Where these duties and responsibilities are carried out effectively the Headteacher and Governors feel that the following outcomes will be apparent:
• Within the school there will be a positive ethos that reflects its commitment to continuing achievement.
• Effective teaching and learning will take place with pupils making at least good progress.
• The post holder will feel…