Special Needs Teaching Assistant - Bradford

Full-time Teaching Assistant required for special school in Bradford (September 2019)

About the school:

Our client is a Special School for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. There are currently 109 pupils aged 4-19 on roll. Pupils have a wide range of SEND including Moderate (MLD), Severe (SLD) and Profound & Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). In addition to their learning difficulties, many pupils also have sensory needs (Visual, Hearing and Multi-Sensory Impairments); some pupils also have medical needs. 85% of pupils have learning difficulties and associated needs resulting from Autism. Each pupil has an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) which identifies long term goals or outcomes. These are reviewed annually with previous targets evaluated and new ones identified. These targets are used as a basis to set a pupil's Personalised Learning Outcomes, which are evaluated and updated on a termly basis with therapist input when appropriate.

All staff place a great deal of importance upon the positive emotional and mental health of pupils, students and staff. The team recognise that the educational, medical and communication needs of their pupils mean that they are more vulnerable to suffering from mental health issues and that, they may be unable to recognise or articulate these to others. Over recent years, staff training has had a specific focus around strategies that can be used to support the Wellbeing of pupils and students including the use of mindfulness, relaxation, the creative arts and physical activity.

About the role:

The school are seeking a full time (32.5 hours per week, term time only) Teaching Assistant, to work across school, supporting pupils across all areas of the curriculum. This role will commence in September 2019 and is a temporary contract in the first instance until July 2020 - however you may have the opportunity to apply for a permanent role in the school after this period.

Under the direction of classroom teachers, you will be involved in the supervision of set tasks, and care of pupils including those with special needs and in the preparation of resources and classroom organisation. You will also have responsibility for the preparation of resources, basic record keeping and supporting the teacher with classroom organisation. You will also be required to meet the needs of pupil(s) in relation to welfare, hygiene, toileting, dressing, feeding and mobility.

Key responsibilities:

• Assist with movement around the school environment and during school activities
• Promote the development of independent social skills
• Ensure the appropriate use of specialist aids and equipment
• Support in the delivery of set tasks and integrated therapy for an individual/small group of pupils
• Accompany pupils on visits, being familiar and working within appropriate guidelines and risk assessments
• Assist in the specific medical/care needs of pupils where specific training has been undertaken
• Be aware of the confidential nature of issues related to home/pupil/teacher/school work
• Supervise pupils out of lesson times, including before and after school
• Support the promotion of positive relationships with staff, parents, and outside agencies
• To engage in community visits or organised activities, such as swimming or hydrotherapy sessions and where appropriate going into water with pupils
• To assist in preparation of resources and tidying away

About you:

We are seeking individuals with the passion and drive to work with young people with Special Educational Needs. You will have experience supporting individuals with additional needs in an education, health or care setting. We welcome applications from graduates in subjects such as Psychology, Social Work, Education Studies, Health and Social Care or Counselling. You will be committed to undertake any relevant training such as Makaton, Team Teach, and Moving and Handling.

About Teaching Personnel:

Established in 1996, Teaching Personnel is the UK's leading teaching agency. Delivering staffing, intervention and supply to schools in England and Wales, our consultants are sector specialists who are committed to supporting your career in education. Please contact Rebecca Barham for more information.