What is the job role?Teaching Assistant Role - Join Our Support Staff Team
We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team at Castle Wood, a vibrant and innovative special needs school for children aged 3 to 11. As a broad-spectrum special needs school, we pride ourselves on our commitment to Early Years practices, which are integrated across our curriculum. Due to expansion in September, we are looking to increase our team of Teaching Assistants.
At Castle Wood, we value professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact on children's lives. Our vision, ‘Together, children first…’, drives everything we do. We are looking for Teaching Assistants with the initiative, dedication, commitment, a sense of fun, and the ability to work as part of a team. You are likely to be working with children who have complex autism, may be non-verbal and have challenging behaviours. You will work with children on both a 1:1 and group basis. Experience and knowledge of Early Years practices are preferred, as they underpin all teaching and learning within the school.
Position Details:
o Hours: 33.5 hours per week. 38 weeks term time plus 5 training days – 39 weeks in total
o Monday - Wednesday: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm
o Thursday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
o Friday: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm
o A 30-minute unpaid lunch break each day.
How to Apply:
In your application, please detail the skills, knowledge, and expertise that would make you a successful Teaching Assistant, and explain why you are drawn to working in a special school environment.
Key Requirements:
• This post is exempt under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and appointment will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Castle Wood is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Useful Information:
• We encourage prospective applicants to arrange a tour of our school. To schedule a visit, please email: cwhhr@castlewood.coventry.sch.uk
• Due to the high volume of applications expected, we are unable to respond to each one individually. If you do not hear from us by the end of February 2025, unfortunately, your application has not been successful on this occasion.
Previous Applicants Need Not Re-Apply.
Who are we looking for?We are looking for a candidate who has:
• GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to use relevant technology and equipment effectively.
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• A commitment to the happiness, well-being, self-esteem, and progress of all students at the school.
• Personal skills and qualities that enable the formation of positive relationships with children, parents, and carers.
• High aspirations for both their pupils and themselves.
Desirable Qualities:
• A strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) would be an advantage. However, a willingness to learn and embrace EYFS practices and principles is essential.
• Previous experience working in a special school is desirable but not essential.
We Offer:
• Fabulous, warm, and enthusiastic children to work with.
• A happy, welcoming school with a supportive team environment.
• Personalized continuing professional development to help you grow in your role.
• An excellent well-being package including occupational health, a counselling service, and a salary sacrifice scheme with childcare vouchers and a cycle-to-work scheme.
• Local government pension scheme arrangements.
• Opportunities to work alongside experts from various disciplines.
• Support from governors and parents.
• Staff workwear provided, along with free tea and coffee.
• Free on-site car parking.
Please apply using the online application form ensuring you outline your skills, abilities, and experience in line with the key areas on the advert and Job Description and Person Specification
Closing date: Sunday 2nd February 2025
Interview date: Week commencing Monday 3rd February 2025
Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undertake an enhanced criminal record check via the DBS.
Following recommendations from Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) for an additional pre employment check with effect 1 Sept 22, please note, an online search may form part of this recruitment process.
