Job Description
Download printable version
Are you passionate about helping young people reach their full potential? Doucecroft School, part of Autism Anglia, is looking for a Teaching Assistant to join our friendly and dedicated team.
The TA is responsible for providing significant contribution towards the education and welfare of the learners; including direct practical interaction in a teaching, caring and supervisory capacity as well as being actively involved in the delivery of all areas of the curriculum. Regularly meeting with the Class Teacher to discuss the timetable and lesson planning, in order to provide cover for the class teacher where necessary.
Find out more about our school here:Doucecroft School
Location: Doucecroft School, Eight Ash Green, Colchester, CO6
Salary: £23,229.82 per annum (term-time only, plus additional training days)
Hours: 38.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 39 weeks per year (term time only) plus 3 training days during school holidays
What the role involves
- Under the direction of the Class Teacher, help prepare for lessons, contribute towards and carry out schemes of work and Individual Student Plans (ISPs)
- Retain an up-to-date knowledge of each student's stage of development with regard to assessment, communication, ISPs and management programmes and share information with colleagues as might be appropriate
- Supervise out of school visits and activities in line with school policies and practices
- To participate in a wide range of physical activities with students e.g. swimming, ice skating, horse riding
- Analyse and simplify tasks and present information in a meaningful and appropriate manner to each student
- Maintain an awareness of, and interest in, the developments within the field of curriculum development for students with autistic spectrum disorders
- Assist in keeping careful and accurate records
- Ensure student and staff safety is maintained at all times, managing challenging and unpredictable situations
- Attend parents' evenings, case conferences and meetings as meetings as necessary, some of which may be outside working hours
- Ensure teaching materials and resources are suitable, in good order and that an adequate supply is available for the task
- Assist in preparing students for departure from school
- Carry out playground duties in line with school policy
- Support the students in maintaining personal hygiene
- Work closely with the Class Teacher and other staff maintaining close links with the Senior LSA and Learning Support Assistants
- Maintain good relationships with parents/carers, outside agencies and the general public with a high degree of personal and professional integrity
- Have a good understanding of autism and treat students with dignity and respect and to be aware of the vulnerability of students at the school
- Ensure that the School's Child Protection and Safeguarding Policies and Procedures are promoted within the school and adhered to by all members of staff
- Participate fully in the school's supervision system in relation to your own professional development
- Be familiar with and put into practice all school policies and procedures
What we're looking for
NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning (desirable but not essential).
You must have previous experience as an LSA or TA in a school setting
Maths and English GCSE Grade C/4 or above.
Experience of working with learners with autism or learning disabilities (highly advantageous).
A valid driving licence (desirable).
Most importantly, we're looking for someone with patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for supporting young people.
Benefits & Support
At Doucecroft, we know our staff are at the heart of everything we do, so we make sure you're supported too. We provide:
- Staff wellbeing programmes and mental health support
- Free counselling service
- Comprehensive training and supervision
- Free on-site parking
- Exclusive discounts with major retailers, restaurants & more via the Blue Light Card
- A supportive and accessible leadership team, always available for guidance and assistance
- 24/7 access to a GP
- Bereavement counselling
- Probate helpline
- Staff dental support
- Life cover
- Independent financial advice
Commitment to Diversity
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
How to apply
If you're looking for a role where you can use your skills to change lives, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today by clicking the link below, and a member of our recruitment team will be in touch.
Doucecroft is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, and we expect all staff to share this commitment. This role is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, registration with the DBS Update Service, and other relevant checks, including verbal verification of references.
We welcome applications from all individuals who meet the requirements of the role and may wish to request flexible working or reasonable adjustments.
Please note: unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship. Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK.
Information about the School
Doucecroft School is a specialist co-educational school for children and young people with autism and additional complex needs, age 3 –19 years. Established in 1973, we are experienced and successful in meeting the needs of students with wide-ranging strengths and needs, providing a nurturing environment where students are able to thrive and grow in independence and self-esteem.
Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy are provided on-site by our experienced therapy team.
Doucecroft School is part of Autism Anglia, a regional charity working with children, adults and families affected by Autism.