DescriptionEmployerLocation
Teaching Assistant with Specialism in Complex Health Needs
To commence at the start of the new academic year (20/08/2026)
School Information:
Birkett House is an extremely popular and successful all age special school for pupils with learning difficulties. We are a multi-sited school in South Leicestershire. The main school site is in Wigston, and we also have inclusion units at Thistly Meadow Primary School (Blaby), Little Hill Primary School (Wigston), Thomas Estley Community College (Broughton Astley) and a purpose-built Senior Department based in Countesthorpe.
Job Information:
We require a teaching assistant to support specific students in the classroom environment and with their complex health needs and tracheostomy care. You will receive full training and ongoing support from a professional health worker and will be required to undertake yearly assessments. This role requires a sensitive and committed person with a proven track record in attendance because 2:1 care is a requirement for the child/ren to be in school. Please refer to the attached Job Description for further details. If you require more information about this role, what the training involves or require further clarity of what you would be expected to deliver, please speak to Alex Higginson (Assistant Headteacher) or Laura Peach (HR Manager).
This is a permanent Teaching Assistant role (Grade 5) with an additional enhancement whilst you are working to support the student with complex health needs and tracheostomy care which is equivalent to Grade 7 point 11.
Qualifications required: Essential: Maths and English qualification to NVQ level 2, Desirable: NVQ level 3 (or working towards this level) or equivalent higher qualification
Contract type:Term time only (+ 5 training days)
Contract term:Full time, Permanent
Working hours: 32.50 hours per week, working 8.30am to 3.45pm Monday-Friday
Starting Salary:Actual salary £20,172 (£18,938 + £1,234 enhancement) F.T.E. £26,832
As an employer we offer staff:
• Comprehensive professional development programme
• Competitive pension scheme
• Staff wellbeing service
• Financial wellbeing service
• Free parking
Additionally, you’ll work with:
• delightful children who will make you laugh every day
• enthusiastic, dedicated staff, committed to ensuring the best outcomes for all pupils
• a warm and welcoming team
This is an exciting and rewarding opportunity to join an outward-looking school and to contribute to the development of special education in Leicestershire. If you are outgoing, flexible, pupil-focused and enjoy working with all kinds of people, download and complete an application form and send along with a letter of application explaining why you believe you have the skills and knowledge to deliver this role successfully.
The closing date is Wednesday 17th May and shortlisting will take place soon after the closing date. Please note that if sufficient applications are received, this advert may close earlier than planned. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview day on Tuesday 2nd June. Candidates will be required to be available for a full day which will include a formal interview, a written task, time with a class group and time with the Healthcare Support Worker.
For further details about the school please visit our website or contact the school office.
Safeguarding Statement
Birkett House is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is designated as a regulated activity and requires enhanced criminal records check for a regulated activity (including a barred list).
Please note shortlisted candidates may be subject to online searches to determine suitability to work with children and keep them safe.