Join Our Team at ISP Whitstable School!
Position: One-to-One Teaching Assistant - Progress Engagement Guide (PEG)
Contract: Full-time, term time only (fixed term)
Salary: £22,070.80
Hours: 35 hours per week (8:15am - 3:45pm, Monday - Friday)
Start Date: ASAP
Location: Whitstable
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme
About Us
At ISP Whitstable, we pride ourselves on being a small, specialized SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) primary school. Our mission is to support children with complex needs and challenging behaviors in a safe and nurturing environment.
Our dedicated staff utilize therapeutic and holistic approaches to create engaging and inspiring learning experiences tailored to each child's unique journey.
The Role
We are on the lookout for a skilled and compassionate Teaching Assistant to join our supportive team. In this role, you will be instrumental in fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for pupils with complex needs.
Your work will focus on helping children engage with their education, feel included in the school community, and improve their attendance.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide one-to-one or small group support for pupils.
* Assist in delivering engaging lessons aligned with early years frameworks and curriculum development.
* Build positive relationships with pupils to encourage engagement and positive learning outcomes.
* Report on pupils' progress and concerns, collaborating with school staff to meet individual needs.
* Supervise pupils during non-classroom time, including extracurricular activities and school trips.
* Assist with lesson planning and classroom preparation.
* Set work where appropriate and support marking.
* Implement attachment and trauma-informed strategies to support pupils' social, emotional, and mental health needs.
* Participate in school events, extracurricular activities, and staff meetings as required.
Qualifications and Skills
* A relevant qualification in education or a related field (e.g., Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma).
* Previous experience working with children, preferably in an educational setting.
* Strong understanding of early years frameworks and curriculum development.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for supporting children with complex needs.
* The ability to work effectively as part of a team.
* A proactive and flexible approach to work.
Teaching and Learning Expectations
As an ISP PEG, you will:
* Prioritize teaching and learning, supporting the work of the teacher.
* Promote inclusion by encouraging participation of all pupils in learning and extracurricular activities.
* Utilize effective behavior management strategies in line with the school's policies.
* Communicate effectively and sensitively with pupils to support their learning.
* Maintain a stimulating and safe learning environment by managing resources and classroom space.
Collaboration and Partnership
As an ISP PEG, you will:
* Recognize and respect the roles of other professionals, parents, and carers, working in partnership with them.
* Collaborate with classroom teachers and colleagues.
* Share knowledge and understanding of pupils with staff and professionals to support informed decision-making.
What We Offer
* A commitment to support your development through a wide range of professional opportunities.
* The chance to make a meaningful contribution to the lives and learning of vulnerable children.
* A friendly and inclusive team passionate about improving pupil outcomes.
The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, the cost of which will be covered by ISP Whitstable School.
ISP Whitstable School is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment.