SEMH Teaching Assistant – Full time

Job Title: SEMH Teaching Assistant

Location: East Grinstead

Salary: £88 daily rate, temp to perm position 

Contract: 08:45 – 16:00 (M,T,Th) 16:30 (W) 15:30 (F), Term Time Only

Start date: September

Drivers Essential

Join Our Team and Inspire Young Minds!

About Us: A fantastic special school in East Grinstead are on the search for an experienced teaching assistant to join their school in September. The school caters for young learners aged 7 – 19 years old with a range of special educational needs.

• Independent special day school for pupils with social, emotional, behavioural, mental health needs, and social communication difficulties, including autism. All pupils have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).

• Ethos & Values: Compassion, kindness, mutual respect, integrity, responsibility, resilience, creativity, and innovation.

• Curriculum Focus:

  • Emphasis on literacy and numeracy.
  • Broad curriculum including Horticulture, Forest School, Horse Riding, Science, PSHE, PE, Art, ICT, Food Technology, Drama, and more.
  • Outside learning opportunities due to rural location.

• Pupil Engagement: Active participation in school governance through School Council, tutor time, and PSHE discussions. Small class sizes with strong support from teachers and teaching assistants.

• Wellbeing Support: Well Being Hub with trained mentors providing pastoral care and liaising with parents, carers, and external agencies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support teachers in delivering engaging lessons and providing individualised support to school students across various subjects.
• Assist in the implementation of differentiated instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of students, fostering a love for learning and academic success.
• Manage challenging behaviour and follow behavioural support plans. 
• Provide one-to-one and small group support to students, helping them to develop literacy, numeracy, and social skills both inside and outside the classroom.
• Collaborate closely with teachers to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued, respected, and supported.
• Assist in the preparation and organisation of learning materials, resources, and activities, ensuring they are age-appropriate and accessible to all students.
•  implementing personalised strategies and accommodations to support each child’s individual needs.
• Foster positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, promoting open communication and collaboration.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Previous experience working with children, preferably in a secondary school setting.
• A genuine passion for working with young learners and supporting them to meet their full potential. 
• Personal or professional experience supporting young learners who have special needs. 
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and connect with children in a supportive and nurturing manner.
• Patience, empathy, and a compassionate approach to working with children of diverse backgrounds and abilities.