Teaching Assistant​/Learning Support Assistant

Teaching Assistant / Learning Support Assistant
Join a supportive secondary school where strong communication, adaptability and resilience will help students with additional needs build confidence, independence and reach their potential.
Direct experience in a similar role is desirable, not essential. Applications are welcome from individuals who are considering entering a career in teaching.
If you've also worked in the following roles, we'd also like to hear from you:
Learning Mentor, SEN Teaching Assistant, SEN Learning Support Assistant, Classroom Assistant, Student Support Officer, Pastoral Support Worker, Education Support Assistant, Teaching Support Assistant
SALARY:
£25,614 per annum FTE (£16,937.30 Actual) + Benefits

LOCATION:

Hedge End, Southampton, Hampshire
JOB TYPE:
Full-Time, Permanent

WORKING HOURS:

29.18 hours per week, term time only (38 weeks): one day 8:30am–4:00pm, with flexibility to choose the day excluding Friday, and four additional days 8:30am–3:10pm
JOB OVERVIEW
This is a rewarding opportunity to help students with additional needs build confidence, independence and make positive progress.
The Teaching Assistant / Learning Support Assistant will join an inclusive team, supporting learning in classrooms and small groups while developing an understanding of individual SEND needs.
Working with teachers and the SENCo, the Teaching Assistant / Learning Support Assistant will share progress feedback and contribute to annual reviews and wider student support.
With induction, mentoring and professional learning, the Teaching Assistant / Learning Support Assistant can develop in a supportive setting, including as a possible step towards a teaching career.
DUTIES
Your duties as the Teaching Assistant / Learning Support Assistant include:
Learning Support:  Provide effective support to students across subject areas, in classrooms and small groups
SEND Strategies:  Build an understanding of individual SEND needs and use appropriate strategies to support progress
Independence and Confidence:  Help students develop independence, motivation and confidence
Teacher Communication:  Liaise proactively with class teachers to understand support needs and share feedback on student progress
Review Feedback:  Contribute feedback to annual review meetings and gather students' views where needed
Break and Activity Support:  Support break and lunchtime duties, plus extra-curricular and after-school activities on a rota basis
Professional Development:  Undertake relevant training and professional development
Health and Safety:  Follow health and safety regulations and agreed codes of practice, helping maintain a safe and welcoming environment
Additional Duties:  Carry out other reasonable duties allocated or directed by the SENCo
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Motivation, commitment and resilience when supporting a range of students
Adaptability and the ability to relate well to students and teachers
Passion for helping students with additional needs reach their potential and develop independence
A positive, approachable and collaborative attitude, with patience, teamwork and a good sense of humour
Good standard of numeracy and literacy
Understanding of the statutory framework relating to safeguarding
Commitment to relevant professional development
DESIRABLE
Previous experience in a similar role
BENEFITS
Comprehensive induction with a dedicated mentor
Continuous professional learning, development and improvement
Excellent CPD programmes
Opportunities for career progression
Supportive team environment where staff are valued
Extensive department resources and facilities
Cycle-to-Work scheme through salary sacrifice
Staff membership rates at a modern leisure centre
Enrolment in one of…