Teaching Assistant (BSL Specialist)

Job Opportunity: Teaching Assistant (BSL Specialist) from September 2026

The Parkside School, Norwich

Scale: Grace D (point 6 -7) Appox £25,989 - £26,403

Hours: 33 hours per week | Term Time + 1 week

Schedule:

Mon 8:45 - 15:45

Tues 8:45 - 16:30

Wed 8:45 - 15:45

Thurs 8:45 - 15:45

Fri 8:45 - 15:30

Contract: Permanent

The Role

At The Parkside School, we believe that communication is the foundation of independence. We are looking for a skilled and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join our team, specifically to provide communication support for a pupil learning British Sign Language (BSL).

While you will be an integral part of the classroom team, your specific expertise will ensure this pupil can fully access the curriculum, build social connections, and develop their voice within our school community.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Communication Support: Provide high-quality BSL support to a specific pupil, ensuring they are engaged and included in all classroom activities.

Curriculum Access: Work alongside the Class Teacher to adapt learning materials, making them visually accessible and linguistically appropriate.

Collaborative Working: Join the wider staff for weekly meetings and development (including our Tuesday afternoon session) to ensure a consistent approach to the pupil’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) goals.

Holistic Care: Support the pupil’s self-regulation and independence, helping them to "Learn, Grow, and Thrive" in line with our school vision.

Person Specification

BSL Skills: You must hold a minimum of BSL Level 1 (Level 2 is highly desirable) and be confident in your ability to sign fluently in a fast-paced classroom environment.

Experience: Previous experience working with children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) is essential.

Commitment: You should be a team player with a "can-do" attitude and a genuine passion for inclusive education.

Working Hours & Pay

This is a Term Time plus 1 week contract. Your standard working 6.5hrs, with the exception of Tuesdays, where you will work until 4:30 pm to facilitate staff collaboration and professional development.

The post is paid at Grade D, reflecting the specialist nature of the communication support required for this role.

The Parkside School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.