Teaching Assistant

The following information is furnished to assist staff to understand and appreciate the work content of their post and the role they are to play in the organisation. However, the following points should be noted.

• Whilst every endeavour has been made to outline all the duties and responsibilities of the post, a document such as this does not permit every item to be specified in detail. Therefore, Broad headings may have been used below; in this case, all the usual associated routines are naturally included in the job description.

·        Staff should not refuse to undertake work not specified on this form, but they should record any additional duties they are required to perform, which will be taken into account when salaries are reviewed.

Job Purpose

To support the teaching and learning of students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, helping them to achieve their full potential in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Classroom Support

·        Assist the teacher in planning, delivering, and evaluating learning activities tailored to students' individual needs.

·        Provide one-on-one or small group support to students with SEMH needs, helping them engage with the curriculum and manage challenges.

·        Support students in developing social skills, emotional regulation, and positive behaviours.

·        Monitor and record progress, provide feedback to the teacher, and contribute to the evaluation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs).

2. Behaviour and Emotional Support

·        Build positive, trusting relationships with students to encourage self-esteem, confidence, and independence.

·        Implement behaviour management strategies aligned with the school’s policies, promoting a calm and focused learning environment.

·        De-escalate challenging situations effectively, using restorative approaches where appropriate.

·        Recognize triggers and early signs of distress, providing appropriate intervention and support.

3. Collaboration and Communication

·        Work closely with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and other professionals to support students' holistic development.

·        Communicate effectively with parents/carers regarding student progress and challenges, as directed by the teacher or SENCO.

·        Contribute to staff meetings, training sessions, and student well-being and development discussions.

4. Administrative Duties

·        Prepare and organise teaching materials and resources under the teacher's guidance.

·        Maintain accurate records of student behaviour, achievements, and incidents, ensuring confidentiality.

·        Support the implementation of assessment tools and contribute to reports for Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs).

5. General Responsibilities

·        Ensure the safety and well-being of all students, adhering to safeguarding policies and procedures.

·        Participate in professional development opportunities to improve skills and knowledge in SEMH education.

·        Undertake additional responsibilities as required to support the needs of the school.

Person Specification

Essential

·        Experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs or in a related educational setting.

·        Strong understanding of the challenges faced by students with SEMH needs and strategies to support them.

·        Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

·        Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure, with practical behaviour management skills.

·        Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

·        Level 2 /grade c GCSE in maths and English.

Desirable

·        Relevant qualifications, such as a Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant certificate or equivalent.

·        Training in de-escalation techniques or therapeutic approaches (e.g., Positive handling, Team-Teach, Thrive, Trauma-Informed Practice).

·        Experience working within a multidisciplinary team.

Interviews to be held on the 9th January 2025