Teaching Assistant Apprentice

Introduction

Hexham Priory School is a specialist school for children and young people aged 2-19 with severe and complex learning disabilities, including Autism. The school provides a nurturing, inclusive environment with personalised learning and dedicated staff supporting every pupil to thrive and achieve their full potential.

About the Employer

Hexham Priory School is a specialist school in West Northumberland supporting children and young people aged 2–19 with severe, profound and multiple learning disabilities, including Autism. As part of the northern hub of the Eden Academy Trust, the school works collaboratively within a family of specialist settings committed to delivering outstanding education and care.

The school provides a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment where every pupil is encouraged to thrive. Staff are passionate about creating a positive and supportive culture in which pupils feel safe, valued and empowered to achieve their full potential.

With highly skilled staff and specialist facilities, the school delivers personalised learning experiences tailored to the individual needs of each pupil. Working closely with parents, carers and external professionals, the team is dedicated to developing meaningful opportunities that support each child and young person both academically and personally.

What You'll Do

• Work under the direct instruction of teaching staff to support pupils’ access to learning within the classroom and across wider school settings
• Support children and young people with a range of special educational needs including Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and pupils experiencing emotional distress
• Promote and safeguard the welfare of all pupils by maintaining a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment at all times
• Provide support with personal care, hygiene, health, emotional wellbeing and welfare needs in line with individual care plans and school procedures
• Supervise and support pupils throughout the school day to ensure their safety, wellbeing and engagement in learning activities
• Build positive, professional and supportive relationships with pupils while acting as a consistent role model within the school environment
• Encourage pupils to develop confidence, independence, self-esteem and positive social interaction skills
• Support pupils to engage positively in learning, play, communication and social development activities
• Assist the class teacher in delivering engaging learning opportunities for individual pupils and small groups
• Adapt learning activities, resources and support strategies to meet the individual needs and abilities of pupils
• Provide constructive feedback to pupils and report on progress, achievements and concerns to the class teacher
• Prepare classrooms, learning resources and specialist equipment before lessons and support with tidying and organisation afterwards
• Support the presentation and celebration of pupils’ work through classroom and school displays
• Assist in maintaining accurate pupil records, documentation and assessment information as directed by teaching staff
• Support positive behaviour management strategies in line with school policies and individual pupil needs
• Work collaboratively with parents, carers and external professionals to support pupil development, wellbeing and educational progress
• Undertake routine marking, assessment support and invigilation duties where appropriate
• Carry out administrative and clerical tasks including photocopying, preparation of classroom materials and basic word processing
• Support pupils in the use of ICT, communication aids and specialist learning resources
• Assist with the preparation, maintenance and safe use of classroom equipment and learning materials
• Supervise pupils during breaktimes, lunchtimes, educational visits and off-site learning activities as required
• Contribute positively to the ethos, aims and values of Hexham Priory School at all times
• Participate in training, professional development and performance management activities to support continued professional growth
• Comply fully with all school policies and procedures, including Safeguarding, Equality, Health & Safety, Confidentiality, Data Protection and Professional Conduct
• Work flexibly across the school to support different classes, departments and pupil needs where required
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the nature and level of the role as directed by Senior Management

Training Outcome

For the right candidate, a permanent position will be considered.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving skills
• Number skills
• Analytical skills
• Team working
• Creative
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience

Qualifications

• Desired - GCSE - Maths and English - 4-C Above

Course Information

Course: Teaching assistant (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Education and early years

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: 08:30 - 16:00, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 08:30 - 16:30 on Wednesday, 08:30 - 15:30 on Friday.

Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months

Number of Positions Available: 3

Training Provider: DERWENTSIDE COLLEGE

This employer is part of the Disability Confident scheme, committed to employing disabled people.