Teaching Assistant

MAKE A DIFFERNECE EVERY DAY We are looking for a compassionate, resilient and committed Teaching Assistant (TA) to join our specialist SEMH school. This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs to overcome barriers to learning, build confidence and achieve positive outcomes. Working alongside teachers and Higher Level Teaching Assistants, you will play a vital role in creating a safe, inclusive and engaging environment where every pupil is supported to reach their full potential. ABOUT THE ROLE As a Teaching Assistant, you will support the Teacher and/or Higher Level Teaching Assistant in the effective day-to-day operation of the classroom, helping to create a positive, inclusive and stimulating learning environment. You will work with individual pupils and small groups to support learning, achievement and personal development, while promoting independence, positive behaviour and high educational standards. The role involves encouraging pupils' social, emotional and academic progress, fostering their participation in all aspects of school life, and working collaboratively with colleagues as part of a professional team to ensure the best outcomes for all pupils. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting pupils' learning both in and out of the classroom
• Working with individuals and small groups to reinforce learning and help achieve their targets.
• Promoting positive behaviour and supporting pupils to develop self-regulation skills.
• Assisting in the delivery of planned learning activities and interventions.
• Helping to create a safe, engaging and inclusive learning environment.
• Encouraging pupils' independence, confidence and participation in school life.
• Supporting the social, emotional and personal development of pupils.
• Observing, monitoring and recording pupil progress and sharing information with teaching staff.
• Contributing to the implementation of individual support plans and behaviour strategies.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, support staff, families and external professionals to meet pupils' individual needs.
ABOUT YOU We are looking for someone who:
• Has experience of working with children or young people, ideally within an SEMH, SEND or alternative provision setting.
• Demonstrates patience, empathy and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable pupils.
• Can build positive and professional relationships based on trust, consistency and respect.
• Has excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Is able to support learning effectively whilst maintaining high expectations of behaviour and achievement.
• Understands the importance of safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing.
• Can remain calm, confident and solution-focused in challenging situations.
• Is committed to helping pupils overcome barriers and celebrate success.
Physical and Emotional Demands This role is both physically and emotionally demanding and requires a high level of resilience, flexibility and commitment. The successful candidate will need to:
• Maintain sustained levels of concentration throughout the school day.
• Respond calmly, safely and effectively to challenging situations and behaviours.
• Support pupils who may present complex learning, behavioural, communication and emotional needs.
• Move regularly around the school site and participate in indoor and outdoor learning activities.
• Support pupils with mobility, independence and personal care needs where required.
• Undertake duties that may involve physical effort and prolonged periods of standing, walking or active supervision.
• Demonstrate patience, emotional resilience and the ability to maintain positive relationships in challenging circumstances.
What We Offer The opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of young people.
• A supportive, skilled and dedicated staff team.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• A school culture that prioritises wellbeing, inclusion and positive outcomes for pupils.
• The chance to work in a rewarding and highly valued role.
• If you are passionate about supporting young people with SEMH needs and are ready to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.
Further information about the school and an application pack can be found on the school website at https//thecastleschoolnewbury.org.uk or contact Cassy Clark via email hr@castle.w-berks.sch.uk Closing date: midnight 11 October
• Interviews: TBC
We reserve the right to hold interviews before the closing date if we receive applications from people who match the person specification criteria, so we encourage you to apply early. The Castle School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment and is in line with guidance in KCSIE. All shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a criminal records self-disclosure form. Successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Baring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant checks including online searches to help to identify any incidents and/or issues which may be relevant to your suitability for the role, which the school may want to explore further with you.

We are looking for someone who:
• Has experience of working with children or young people, ideally within an SEMH, SEND or alternative provision setting.
• Demonstrates patience, empathy and a genuine passion for supporting vulnerable pupils.
• Can build positive and professional relationships based on trust, consistency and respect.
• Has excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Is able to support learning effectively whilst maintaining high expectations of behaviour and achievement.
• Understands the importance of safeguarding and promoting pupil wellbeing.
• Can remain calm, confident and solution-focused in challenging situations.
• Is committed to helping pupils overcome barriers and celebrate success.