Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship
About the role
We are seeking a motivated and compassionate individual to join our organisation as a Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprentice. This role sits within our classroom support team and plays a vital part in supporting pupils with additional needs to access learning and thrive within the school environment.
The successful candidate will work closely with the Premier line manager, class teachers, the SENCo and wider support staff to provide targeted support for pupils, either on a one-to-one basis or within small groups. The role is designed to combine practical, hands-on experience in school with structured apprenticeship training, enabling the apprentice to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence required to progress within education or SEND support.
Key responsibilities include supporting learning activities, helping pupils to engage positively in the classroom, promoting independence and assisting with the implementation of individual support plans. The role may also involve supporting behaviour, social development and emotional wellbeing in line with school policies.
On a day-to-day basis, the apprentice will report to the class teacher and SENCo, working collaboratively with teaching assistants, teachers and pastoral staff. Full support, mentoring and training will be provided throughout the apprenticeship. This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about supporting children with additional needs and beginning a career in education.
Responsibilities of a Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprentice:
- Provide targeted support to pupils with additional needs, working one-to-one or in small groups as directed by the class teacher or
- SENCo
- Support pupils to access learning activities, adapt resources where appropriate, and encourage engagement and independence
- Assist with the implementation of individual support plans, behaviour strategies and learning interventions
- Promote positive behaviour, emotional wellbeing and inclusion in line with school policies
- Support pupils with social communication, emotional regulation and sensory needs where required
- Work collaboratively with teachers, teaching assistants and pastoral staff to support classroom learning
- Observe and record pupil progress, feeding back to the class teacher and SENCo as appropriate
- Assist with classroom preparation, resources and learning environments
- Supervise pupils during transitions, breaktimes or other structured activities as required
- Maintain confidentiality and follow safeguarding, SEND and data protection procedures at all times
- Engage fully with apprenticeship training, mentoring and professional development opportunities
Working week
Monday - Friday, 9.00am - 3.00pm. The apprentice may be required to work across multiple school settings in South London. Specific school placements may vary and will be confirmed with applicants.
Skills
Required qualifications
Training & development
- After successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into roles such as Specialist Teaching Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, SEN Support Assistant, Classroom Assistant or Pastoral Support Assistant
- The apprentice may also progress into further training in education, childcare, special educational needs support, behaviour support or teaching
Things to consider
Candidates must be aged 18+. The successful applicant must be willing to undertake an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service, DBS, check.
Previous experience working with children or young people, particularly in an educational, childcare or support setting, would be desirable. Experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs, SEN, including ASD, ADHD, speech and language needs or SEMH, would also be beneficial.
Candidates with a relevant qualification or training in Childcare, Education, Health and Social Care, or similar at Level 2 or above are desirable. Basic knowledge of SEND frameworks, individual support plans or behaviour support strategies would be useful, along with experience as a Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant or classroom volunteer.
An understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures within a school environment is desirable, as well as confidence supporting small groups or one-to-one interventions under teacher guidance.
About YOUNGSTARS CHILDCARE LIMITED
We are the UK’s leading provider of sport, physical activity and childcare to primary age children and have expert understanding of primary school needs. We operate as an extension of school staff resources, providing invaluable support, and are an approved, trusted resource for the PE and sport premium. We offer career pathways for Activity Professionals, Playworkers, PE teachers, Teaching Assistants and Specialist Teaching Assistants.