Job Description
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Teaching Assistant (Trauma‑Informed Setting)
Small Independent Secondary School
Location: Leigh-on-Sea
Contract: Full-time
Start Date: September 2026
We are a small, nurturing, independent school dedicated to supporting young people aged 13 to 18 who have experienced trauma and disrupted education. Our students are bright, capable, and full of potential; they need adults who can meet them with patience, consistency, and genuine care.
We are looking for a compassionate, emotionally resilient Teaching Assistant to join our close‑knit team. This role is ideal for someone who believes in the power of relationships, understands the impact of trauma on learning, and wants to make a meaningful difference every single day.
What You'll Do
Build trusting, supportive relationships with students who may struggle with traditional learning environments
Provide in‑class support across a range of subjects, adapting approaches to meet individual needs
Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and pastoral staff to create a safe, predictable learning environment
Support students with emotional regulation, social skills, and confidence‑building
Contribute to personalised learning plans and reflective practice
Model calm, consistency, and unconditional positive regard
What We're Looking For
A warm, grounded person who can stay steady under pressure
Experience working with children, ideally those with SEMH needs or trauma histories
An understanding of trauma‑informed practice (or a willingness to learn)
Excellent communication skills and a reflective, team‑focused mindset
Someone who sees behaviour as communication, not defiance
A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
A driver who is willing to transport pupils
What We Offer
A supportive, values‑driven team
Small class sizes and a relational approach to education
Ongoing training in trauma‑informed practice and therapeutic approaches
Opportunities for professional development and career progression
A role where your presence genuinely changes lives
If you believe every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply: Please send your CV and a short covering letter to recruitment@kitescs.com by 18th May 2026.
Information about the School
We are a small, nurturing, independent school dedicated to supporting young people aged 13 to 18 who have experienced trauma and disrupted education. Our students are bright, capable, and full of potential; they need adults who can meet them with patience, consistency, and genuine care.