Job Title: Teaching Assistant
Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: £22,906 £23,621 per year (depending on experience), £12.82 £13.22 per hour
Start Date: As soon as possible
We are currently looking for a passionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join a brand-new SEN secondary school in Horsham, supporting autistic young people aged 1116.
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a nurturing and forward-thinking school that values kindness, understanding, and wellbeing. The school offers an adapted National Curriculum tailored to meet students sensory, emotional, and learning needs delivered in small class settings with a strong therapeutic focus.
The role
As a Teaching Assistant, youll play a key role in supporting students academic progress, personal development, and emotional wellbeing. Youll also collaborate with our in-house clinical team to deliver therapeutic strategies and interventions, helping each student achieve their full potential in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Build positive, trusting relationships with students to support their learning and wellbeing.
* Work closely with teachers, the SENCO, and therapists to deliver personalised learning plans.
* Implement therapeutic strategies and interventions under the guidance of clinical professionals.
* Support students with varying levels of need, including those with high anxiety, ARFID, or mental health challenges.
* Assist in delivering enrichment activities such as outdoor learning, swimming, sports, visits, and community projects.
* Communicate regularly with parents and professionals regarding student progress and wellbeing.
* Contribute to the wider aims and ethos of the school, promoting a culture of kindness and inclusion.
Experience
Essential:
* A strong interest in therapy, psychology, or supporting neurodivergent young people.
* Effective experience working with young people, particularly those with SEND, or a clear potential to learn quickly.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Empathy, resilience, and a positive, growth-focused mindset.
* Basic IT skills to support student learning and record keeping.
* Commitment to becoming a neuro-informed and neuro-affirmative practitioner.
* Strong safeguarding and pastoral awareness.
Desirable:
* Qualifications or experience related to psychology, education, or special educational needs.
Benefits
* Life assurance
* Enhanced pension scheme
* Perkbox high street and online discounts
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Car lease scheme
* Fully funded training and qualifications
* Bike to work scheme
* Free membership to a health cashback plan (including dental, optical, and physiotherapy cover)
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