Teaching Assistant

Thecastleschoolnewbury; Theale; On-site; GBP 20,000 - GBP 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing SEMH provision in Theale is seeking additional Teaching Assistants to foster exceptional learning environments. This role involves supporting students with specific needs alongside a dedicated teaching team. Successful candidates will possess at least a level 3 qualification and relevant SEN experience, offering a chance to develop skills in a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Opportunities for training and professional development are available, ensuring a fulfilling career in a collaborative setting.

Benefits

Bespoke support and CPD

Caring and inclusive environment

Freedom to innovate

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification of a level 3 qualification.
• Demonstrable and relevant SEN experience.
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills.

Responsibilities

• Support the needs of pupils as individuals or in small groups throughout the day.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Patience and empathy

Teamwork

Flexible approach

Positive attitude towards challenges

Education

Level 3 qualification

Job description

Overview

We are a growing SEMH provision and are seeking additional Teaching Assistants to help create exceptional learning environments for our pupils. We are committed to providing high-quality education and support to our students, helping them reach their full potential in a nurturing and inclusive environment. This is a pivotal moment of expansion, offering a fantastic opportunity for someone with SEMH/ASD experience, a passion for person-centred learning and therapeutic approaches, to be involved in our successful school.

You will work closely with the class teacher and HLTA to support the needs of pupils as individuals or in small groups throughout the day. You will have excellent people skills and a warm and caring personality. The ability to communicate effectively with pupils, parents and other staff is important. Opportunities for training are available, and all staff are encouraged to take up these opportunities.

This role is 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, term time only and based in our Theale site.

Responsibilities

• You will work closely with the class teacher and HLTA to support the needs of pupils as individuals or in small groups throughout the day.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification of level 3 qualification
• Demonstrable and relevant SEN experience
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Patience and empathy when working with students who require additional support
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills
• Passionate about supporting student learning and development
• Flexible approach to work tasks and responsibilities
• Positive attitude towards challenges and problem-solving
• Respectful of diverse backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and abilities

Benefits and Development

• The opportunity to work with highly experienced, devoted colleagues and students who value the experiences we provide, within a dynamic, creative, therapeutic environment
• A bespoke package of support and CPD to enable you to grow and develop into who you are aspiring to be
• A caring, positive and inclusive environment
• Well trained, professional and supportive governors
• Freedom to innovate and an active role in contributing to the shared vision of the school

Application Details

• Closing Date: 22 February 2026
• Interviews: w/c 2 March
• We reserve the right to hold interviews before the closing date if we receive applications from people who match the person specification criteria, so we encourage you to apply early.

Safeguarding

The Castle School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment and is in line with guidance in KCSIE. All shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete a criminal records self-disclosure form. Successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Baring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant checks including online searches to help identify any incidents and/or issues which may be relevant to your suitability for the role, which the school may want to explore further with you.