Teaching Assistant Role: Your Psychology Degree Can Change Lives
Are you a Psychology Graduate looking for a challenging yet incredibly rewarding role where you can put theory into practice? Join our specialist school and college as a Teaching Assistant and directly support students with complex needs.
You can earn up to £27,981 FTE (36 hours over 52 weeks), depending on your qualifications and experience. An additional
£1,000 Retention Bonus is also available. The Opportunity: Specialist Education & Behaviour Support
This is not a mainstream TA position. As a Teaching Assistant, you will be a vital part of the education team supporting students, aged 5-19, with severe social communication difficulties, complex learning disabilities, and often challenging behaviours.
Your role will involve:
* Applying psychological principles to support students in accessing therapy-based education.
* Guiding students through frustration, anxiety, and emotional regulation, helping them to manage their feelings and behaviour
* Working in classes grouped by ability and social needs, supporting
personalised timetables and a multi-sensory approach for non-verbal communicators (using Makaton, signs, symbols, etc.).
* Helping students achieve the greatest possible level of independence relative to their complex needs, preparing them for life beyond school or college
Why This Role is Ideal for Psychology Graduates
While no prior experience is needed, your academic background in psychology provides an excellent foundation:
* Empathy and Compassion are essential qualities, alongside physical and mental resilience.
* Your understanding of human development, communication, and behaviour is crucial for being able to dynamically risk assess challenging situations and remain calm when faced with anxious or frustrated behaviours.
* You will receive comprehensive training in safeguarding, autism, and positive behaviour support (including Team Teach training as part of your induction). This directly complements your academic knowledge.
* We offer a two-year nationally accredited TA qualification paid for by the Trust, with excellent opportunities for career progression towards Senior Teaching Assistant and Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) roles.
o Unqualified HLTA starting salaries are from £23,999 (£27,981 FTE).
o Qualified HLTA starting salaries are from £27,715 (£32,313 FTE).
Benefits and Logistics
* Training & Development: Twice-weekly TA training leading to an apprenticeship qualification. Team Teach positive behaviour support training refreshed annually. Regular 1:1 line management support and a personalised approach to CPD.
* Support: Ongoing support from a skilled and dedicated team, including on-site Team Teach tutors and an excellent network of support across the organisation, including Adult Mental Health First Aid.
* Hours: 36 hours per week, term time plus CPD days.
* Additional Perks: Free hot lunch during term time, Life Assurance and Medical Cashplan (after a qualifying period), and an Employee assistance service (24/7 counselling service).
* We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This position requires an enhanced DBS and reference checks.
How to Apply
Apply now or call Paul Hirchfield on 01293 527416 for a confidential discussion. paul.hirchfield@randstadeducation.co.uk
(We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage applications from all qualified candidates. All successful applicants will be subject to a full DBS check.)