Job Description
Launch Your Career: Specialist Teaching Assistant Role for Psychology Graduates! Are you a highly motivated Psychology Graduate or an aspiring professional looking for an invaluable, hands-on opportunity to apply behavioural science principles in a clinical-educational setting? A prestigious, Outstanding-rated specialist school near Cranleigh, Surrey, is seeking an enthusiastic Teaching Assistant (TA) to work with children and young people aged 4-19 with autism and complex communication difficulties. This role offers unparalleled experience perfect for those pursuing a career in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), or Speech and Language Therapy. The Perfect Applied Setting for Psychology Graduates This specialist independent day school is founded on evidence-based practice and offers a unique opportunity to directly implement psychological and behavioural theory. Applied Theory: The school operates using the principles of behaviour analysis (CABAS model), providing a highly structured, data-driven environment. You will be actively involved in implementing and monitoring scientifically validated interventions. Skill Development: This position is a robust foundation for postgraduate study. You will gain practical experience in: Functional Assessment and Analysis of Behaviour. Data Collection and Analysis to inform pupil-specific learning programmes. Precision Teaching and individualised curriculum design. Ethical implementation of positive behaviour support plans. Expert Mentorship: Work closely with qualified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs), specialist teachers, and therapists who will provide training, mentorship, and supervision in behavioural principles. Career Pathway: The school is committed to continuous professional development, offering opportunities for funded qualifications and supporting staff who wish to progress into teaching or behaviour analytic roles. Your Role: Applying Theory to Practice As a Teaching Assistant, you will be crucial in translating behavioural science into effective educational outcomes for individual pupils. Key Responsibilities: Behavioural Implementation: Systematically implement individualised education and behaviour support plans based on the principles of ABA/behaviour analysis. Data-Driven Decisions: Collect accurate and objective data on pupil performance, communication, and target behaviours, using this data to help monitor and adjust intervention effectiveness. Curriculum Delivery: Deliver specialised one-to-one and small group instruction in areas like communication, academic skills, and life skills. Collaboration: Contribute informed observations to multidisciplinary team meetings (e.g., SLTs, OTs, BCBAs) to ensure a unified approach to pupil development. Safe Environment: Help manage the classroom environment to promote safety, focus, and engagement. Essential Requirements We are looking for candidates who are keen to merge academic understanding with practical application. Academic Background: A degree in Psychology (or a closely related field like Cognitive Science, Counselling, or Education Studies) is highly desirable. UK Experience: Previous professional, personal, or voluntary experience working within a UK setting is required. This demonstrates an understanding of the UK's educational and safeguarding environment. Transport & Location: A valid UK driving licence and access to your own reliable transport are essential due to the location near Cranleigh and the requirement for community-based learning. Personal Qualities: Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail in data collection, resilience, and a genuine passion for working with neurodiverse individuals.
