Level 1 Teaching Assistant

Job Description

About the employer:

Oak Field School is a Special School (Ofsted Outstanding 2018, 2014, 2011) for 166 pupils aged 3-19 with a wide range of learning and physical disabilities, broadly SLD (severe learning difficulties) and PMLD (profound and multiple learning difficulties). This includes some pupils with challenging behaviours linked to SLD, some pupils with ASD, and some pupils with complex health needs. 

About the role:

We are seeking a proactive, enthusiastic, and committed Teaching Assistant with a strong background/interest in the field of SEN and Disability. A particular interest in supporting the learning of pupils with SLD/ASD who have challenging behaviours linked to their disability would be an advantage, as would experience of supporting the learning of children and young people with PMLD. The school would very much welcome applications from graduates with a degree in a relevant field, who have a strong interest in this sector, and/or who might be considering a teaching career. Similarly, although this is an unqualified post, we would welcome applications from strong candidates who are currently enrolled on an NVQ3 course in Supporting Teaching and Learning (STL) or similar, or who are actively thinking of applying for this in the near future, since there will be opportunities for career progression within the school. If in doubt about your suitability for this post, please contact Patricia Lewis (Headteacher) before you apply, as below.

The focus of a TA1 post at our school is to support personalised learning at all levels, as part of a team – this includes teaching, learning, assessment, behaviour management, and care; TA1s support especially the physical management and care of the pupils, alongside pupil/student assistants. The successful candidate will be expected to be proactive in seeking and developing their own CPD. The school provides training in areas such as Communication, Makaton, PSHE/RSE, Behaviour and Physical Intervention (NCC Approach), Moving and Handling, and Personal and Intimate Care (see appendix) to maximise access to learning. We also ensure access to multi-disciplinary training in physical management, and health tasks such as gastrostomy feeds, as appropriate. Although TAs work in a specific class, candidates are appointed to the school, rather than to a specific KS, to a particular area of Learning Difficulty, or to a particular pupil (class placement changes annually, by negotiation), and are expected to participate actively in the wider life and enrichment activities of the school.

Hours of work:

Working hours for this post are Mon-Fri 8.50am-3.50pm, with 30 minutes lunchbreak.

How to apply:

To apply visit Level 1 Teaching Assistant – Eteach