Teaching Assistant Northcroft School (Amegreen Education) Newbury, Berkshire (RG14) About Northcroft School Northcroft School is based in the centre of Newbury. This gives pupils excellent opportunities to take part in meaningful work experience and community learning. We offer a specialist learning environment that feels personal, calm and nurturing. Northcroft combines the close, welcoming feel of a small school with the consistency and support of a home, alongside professional care and education. We welcome children and young people from Year 7 to Year 11. Pupils are at the heart of everything we do. Using a child-centred approach, trauma-informed approach, we help young people rebuild confidence, feel ready to learn and reconnect with education. Our broad and enriching curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity and support steady progress. Learning at Northcroft School goes beyond the classroom. We take time to know each pupil well and build strong, trusting relationships, so they feel safe, valued and supported every day. The role Our Teaching Assistants support our vulnerable students throughout the school day. This could be on a one-to-one basis or with small groups of students. You will provide calm, consistent support that helps students engage with learning, build confidence, and make progress across core subjects and vocational interests. The role requires rapport-building, active listening, and appropriate, assertive challenge. You will need flexibility, creativity, and therapeutic understanding to meet the student’s needs and the targets set out in their EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan). You will always hold the health, safety, and welfare of pupils in the highest regard. Key responsibilities Deliver consistent support to help the students focus, engage, and complete tasks Support students to take part in assessment and support tools, including GL Assessment and Accelerated Reader Build positive relationships through clear boundaries, encouragement, and active listening Share observations and provide feedback on progress to parents and school staff where appropriate Work alongside therapists to implement agreed strategies and link support to EHCP outcomes Help plan and prepare project work using a range of resources, including appropriate community learning opportunities such as libraries, museums, and other relevant venues Follow safeguarding procedures and health and safety expectations at all times You will ideally have At least 2 years’ experience in a similar setting or support role, such as SEN, SEMH, behavioural support, or residential childcare High energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to engaging with young people Strong communication skills, emotional resilience, and a consistent, professional approach The physical ability to meet the demands of the role, including the potential need for physical interventions in line with behaviour support plans A willingness to complete training in safe physical intervention techniques, if required Working pattern and benefits Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.00pm, with minimal after-hours commitments Friday afternoons are CPD time with no students on site, plus 10 INSET days across the year Therapeutic reflection and twice-daily briefings to support strong practice and consistency Regular offsite outdoor learning and enrichment sessions Hot lunch cooked on site every day Opportunities to collaborate across West Berkshire and with our partnership school, sharing expertise and best practice Life insurance (death in service) – 4x basic annual salary Health cash plan (Health Shield) (after probation/eligibility applies) Training and development – induction and mandatory training, plus CPD, therapeutic support and further qualifications Free holiday accommodation – company holiday home on south coast Discounts – Blue Light Card local partner discounts Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – free, confidential 24/7 support helpline Company pension with award winning provider and enhanced employer contributions Company sick pay scheme available after 6 months’ service Electric car scheme Cycle to Work – salary sacrifice options Recognition – Employee of the Month long service awards Discounted driving lessons with local instructor Referral bonus scheme – financial incentives for successful referrals (criteria apply) Equality and Diversity Amegreen is committed to being an organisation that allows people to be their authentic selves in a safe and inclusive environment. We are actively building diverse teams and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you require any accessibility adjustments to support your application, please contact us. Safeguarding Amegreen Children’s Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and references. All employees must complete mandatory safeguarding and GDPR training. Successful candidates will complete a thorough safeguarding onboarding process, including a full employment history review and an enhanced DBS check.