Application Pack for the Role of 1:1 SEND Teaching Assistant
12 month Fixed Term Contract starting in September 2026
CHEAM | 1:1 SEND Teaching Assistant
Role Overview
Cheam School is seeking a dedicated and highly motivated Teaching Assistant to work with a Year 1 child on a 1:1 basis for a 12 month fixed term contract.
The child attends Cheam School, and this is where you will primarily work to support the child. The candidate should be prepared to support the child in their learning, and be part of a skilled and hard working team of staff. A NVQ qualification and some experience with supporting children with SEND is desirable.
About Cheam School
Cheam was founded in 1645 and is one of the oldest prep schools in the world. Cheam is an IAPS boarding and day school with boys and girls from age 3-13 years. Cheam prides itself on its excellent all-round record academically, musically, artistically and on the sports field and is especially highly regarded for its Character education. The facilities are outstanding. On completing their education at Cheam, children move on to the top Public Schools in England, including but not limited to: Bradfield, Downe House, Eton, Lord Wandsworth, Marlborough, Radley, Sherborne, Wellington and Winchester. The school is non-selective yet achieves consistently high standards academically, through an inspirational and dedicated team of teachers.
Cheam School is situated in a stunning rural location ten minutes from Newbury and fifteen minutes from Basingstoke, just off the A339. It is surrounded by smaller towns and villages from which it draws many of its pupils.
CHEAM | 1:1 SEND Teaching Assistant
Role Specification
Supervise the child in their class setting throughout school hours during term time approximately 15hrs per week (mornings only)
Work with the Year 1 team to implement strategies to enable the child to access their learning and social engagement in a safe and positive manner
Support the child with their emotional wellbeing
Liaise with staff and parents regarding the child’s progress
Candidate Specification
Be able to communicate clearly and persuasively both orally and in writing with children, staff and parents alike.
Be well organised and hard working with a good sense of humour.
Be able to work calmly and accurately under pressure and show resilience where necessary.
Be able to work collaboratively with colleagues within the school.
Be prepared and able to initiate and manage change, where necessary.
Be aware of, and devoted to, the educational needs of the individual pupil.
● Display absolute commitment to the highest standards of professional behaviour and to promote the welfare and safeguarding of children.
Be proficient in the use of IT and to understand issues that arise in the use of digital learning within a school environment.
Act at all times as an outstanding ambassador for the school.
Qualifications
A NVQ qualification and some experience with supporting children with SEND is desirable.
CHEAM | 1:1 SEND Teaching Assistant
Hours and Salary
The salary will be competitive, according to experience and qualifications. The hours for this role will be 8.30am - 11.30am (to be confirmed) Monday to Friday, approximately 15 hours per week, term time only.
Holidays, Days Off and Benefits
School holidays are usually three weeks at Christmas, three weeks at Easter, eight weeks in the summer, one week for February and May half terms and two weeks for October half term. There are regular staff meetings and INSET days before the start of each term and all staff are expected to attend these.
Benefits include:
● Generous pension scheme
Professional development and a variety of training opportunities
School lunches, snacks and refreshments provided during term time
Use of the school gym and Cheam’s wonderful facilities
Wellbeing focus with access to physio, counsellors and regular team socials
● Free onsite parking
CHEAM | 1:1 SEND Teaching Assistant
Working at Cheam
Our staff are Cheam’s greatest asset. From the inspiring and experienced teachers to the efficient and friendly support teams, everyone contributes to the special environment at Cheam. It is the perfect place for staff to thrive and grow.
“It’s a privilege to work in such a beautiful setting, with a brilliant group of colleagues who make coming to work worthwhile.”
“Having worked in a number of schools, when I found Cheam, it felt the most like home. The team, the amazing site and the positive, can-do attitudes are what makes it a great place to work and live.”
“The feeling of camaraderie amongst the staff and being part of the Cheam team. It’s a very special community.”
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CHEAM | 1:1 SEND Teaching Assistant
How to Apply
To apply, please complete the application form and equal opportunities form found on our website at www.cheamschool.co.uk and please include a covering letter. Unfortunately we are unable to accept applications without a completed application form.
Covering letters and application forms should be submitted via email to Siobhan Branch, branchs@cheamschool.co.uk - alternatively you can post your application to the address below.
Key Dates
Closing date for applications: Friday $5 ^ { \mathrm { t h } }$ June 2026 at 17:00
Interviews will be held from: Monday 8 June th
• Start date: September 2026
The school reserves the right to call someone to interview before the application closing date
Safeguarding, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Cheam School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
We are also committed to a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion. If you believe your personal values would fit with the Cheam values and ethos we would love to hear from you. Whatever your background, if you lead by example, show resilience, kindness and seek always to integrate and share, please get in touch.