Who We Are
This role provides dedicated 1:1 support for secondary-aged pupils at Compass Community School Pembroke Park. You will build a safe, trusting relationship with a pupil, helping them regulate emotions, engage in learning and develop confidence and independence.
Pembroke Park is a small specialist SEND school for pupils aged 6 to 16 who have struggled in mainstream education. Located in a rural setting near Colchester, Essex, the school offers purpose-built learning, therapy and sensory spaces alongside extensive outdoor facilities.
Our pupils all have Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, and many also have SEND needs including Autism, ADHD and communication difficulties. As a trauma and attachment-informed organisation, we provide extensive therapeutic training and support to all staff.
The Role
No two days and no two pupils are the same. Our Teaching Assistants support children with complex emotional, social and behavioural needs, requiring patience, resilience, flexibility and a solution-focused approach.
Key responsibilities may include:
- Providing dedicated 1:1 support for a secondary-aged pupil.
- Supporting teaching and learning in the classroom.
- Delivering individual and small-group interventions.
- Managing classroom resources.
- Supporting educational visits and activities.
- Helping pupils develop positive social relationships.
- Managing challenging behaviour and promoting safety.
- Supporting practical activities and creative learning opportunities.
- Celebrating achievement and progress.
- Participating in therapeutic and reflective practice.
We value Teaching Assistants as key members of our school community and encourage them to contribute ideas that enhance learning and wider school life.
Benefits and Rewards
- Competitive salary.
- Extensive training and professional development opportunities.
- Small class sizes with specialist support.
- Career progression within a growing national organisation.
- Enhanced occupational sickness scheme.
- Flexible pension scheme.
- Regular therapeutic and supportive supervision.
- Employee benefits package with wellbeing services, salary sacrifice schemes and retail discounts.
Applications are reviewed regularly and vacancies may close early if suitable candidates are identified.
Safeguarding
Compass Community Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Successful applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced DBS check and relevant safeguarding checks.
All staff share responsibility for safeguarding and must work in line with the school's Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy.
Compass is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity, inclusion and creating a workforce that reflects the communities we serve.