Job Description
Dedicated Teaching Assistant (SEN, Trauma-Informed). Are you a compassionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant ready to make a significant difference? We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our supportive educational team in Plymouth. We provide specialised, short-to-medium-term educational support for children and young people with complex needs, many of whom have experienced significant trauma. Our aim is to offer a safe, nurturing environment where pupils can heal, learn, and grow, ultimately transitioning back into mainstream education or other suitable placements. Location: Plymouth (Specific address provided upon application). What We Offer You: ... Competitive Salary. Comprehensive Professional Development & Training: Including specialised trauma-informed practice and advanced SEN strategies. A Nurturing & Collaborative Work Environment: Work alongside dedicated educators and support staff committed to pupil well-being and progress. Meaningful Work: Directly contribute to the positive transformation of young lives in Plymouth and the surrounding areas. Your Vital Role: Making a Difference Every Day. As a Teaching Assistant in our Plymouth-based team, you will be integral to creating a positive, safe, and engaging learning environment. You'll work collaboratively with our experienced teachers and therapeutic support staff, providing tailored assistance to help our unique students achieve their educational and personal development goals. Key Responsibilities & Activities: Classroom & Learning Support: Assist teachers with dynamic classroom management and delivering engaging instruction for pupils with diverse learning styles. Individual & Small Group Intervention: Provide targeted one-on-one and small group support to students, adapting strategies to meet complex needs including Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Behaviour Management & Support: Implement effective, proactive, and compassionate behaviour support plans rooted in a trauma-informed approach. Collaborative Teamwork: Actively participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings, contributing to pupil progress reviews and individualised education plans (IEPs). Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and confidential records of student progress, observations, and interventions. Relationship Building: Foster positive, trusting relationships with students, their families, and external agencies, promoting a sense of belonging and security. Who We're Looking For: Your Essential Skills & Experience. We seek individuals who are genuinely passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and possess the following: Essential Experience: Direct experience working with Special Educational Needs (SEN), especially Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) or Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Experience in a trauma-informed environment or understanding of the impact of trauma on learning and behaviour. A proven ability to build rapport with children and young people, particularly those who may present with challenging behaviours or complex emotional needs. Strong teamwork ethic and the ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team. Core Skills & Attributes: Exceptional Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Clear, patient, and empathetic communication with students, staff, and families. Patience, Empathy, and Resilience: The ability to remain calm and composed in challenging situations, demonstrating unwavering support for students. Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to dynamic classroom needs. Strong Organisational & Time Management Skills: Efficiently manage varied tasks and responsibilities. Understanding of Child Development & Learning: A foundational knowledge of how children learn and develop. Initiative & Independence: Ability to follow instructions, work independently, and take proactive steps when required. Qualifications: While not mandatory, relevant qualifications such as a Teaching Assistant qualification (e.g., CACHE Level 2 or 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools) or equivalent experience are highly preferred. We prioritise demonstrable experience and unwavering commitment.
