SEND Teaching Assistant

We are seeking to appoint a passionate, motivated and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to work in partnership with teaching and other SEND Team staff. You will support the learning, engagement and progress of SEND pupils in a range of contexts.

SEND Teaching Assistants will:

• Work with class teachers to ensure SEND pupils engage in learning and make good progress;

• Promote pupils’ independent learning skills, self-esteem and social inclusion;

• Give support to pupils through structured interventions so they can access the curriculum, take part in learning and experience a sense of achievement;

• Act as a Key Worker for a number of SEND pupils, maintaining regular contact with parents / carers;

• Work closely with Faculty Leaders to ensure teaching staff have the skills, knowledge, training and resources to differentiate appropriately to meet the needs of SEND pupils within their subjects;

• Be linked to and support a faculty with SEND intervention and teaching strategies, developing expertise in a specific subject area;

• Develop expertise in two specific aspects of SEND.

What makes Whickham School special?

We're genuinely comprehensive – and our results prove it

At Whickham, inclusion isn't just a buzzword – it's at the heart of everything we do. We set high expectations for all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, have SEND, or may face other barriers to learning or wellbeing. Our SEND learners don't just make progress – they thrive. In 2023/24, pupils with an EHCP achieved an average Progress 8 score of +0.67, significantly above national averages.

Every member of staff at Whickham is committed to helping every pupil be the best they can be, regardless of their starting point or the barriers they face.

Who you are:

You are an enthusiastic and engaging Teaching Assistant who is:

• Passionate about supporting young people to achieve their full potential, with an understanding of the barriers some students face in education.

• A positive team player who can build strong relationships with students, staff and families, while working collaboratively within a classroom environment.

• Confident in delivering targeted support and interventions for students at risk of underachieving, using effective learning strategies and ICT skills.

• Calm, proactive and adaptable, with the ability to work effectively under pressure and respond positively to challenges.

• Committed to safeguarding, inclusion and maintaining high standards to improve outcomes and life chances for all students.

• Qualified to Level 3 or above, with the aptitude to work with young people and a willingness to continue learning and developing professionally.

Experience is not essential for the right candidate; if you are passionate about the role and committed to supporting young people, full in-house training and ongoing professional development will be provided.

Ready to take the next step?

Want to see it for yourself? We actively encourage visits. Contact Kate Spoor (Assistant Headteacher Inclusion) at kspoor@whichkhamschool.org to arrange a time that works for you.

Application deadline: 9am on Friday 26th June Submit to: recruitment@whickhamschool.orgApplication forms: Download from Whickham School website where you will also find further details about the school and role.

Whickham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. We expect all staff to share our commitment to safeguarding.