Teaching Assistant – Advert £20,527 p.a. Full time (35 hours per week) Term time only Start Date: As soon as possible About Us: At Rutherford School, we are a dedicated and inclusive school that provides exceptional education and support for children with special educational needs, including profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). Our goal is to create an environment where every young person can thrive, reach their full potential, and feel valued as part of our community. Our cohort is currently aged from 16 - 25 years. All our pupils are wheelchair users, are medically dependent and require support with personal care. Pupils have access to fantastic facilities which include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms and onsite therapists and registered nurses. The Role: We are seeking passionate and compassionate Teaching Assistants to join our team and support our students with PMLD. As a PMLD Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with our teachers, therapists and other support staff to help provide tailored learning experiences, promote positive behaviour, and ensure the well-being and safety of our students. You will assist with both individual and group activities, supporting students in the classroom and beyond, and ensuring they have access to a rich and stimulating educational experience. This is a very rewarding role, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students who require highly individualized care and teaching. The hours of work will be from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. Key Responsibilities: • Assist the class teacher in delivering lessons tailored to students with PMLD. • Provide 1:1 and group support, helping students engage with their learning and personal development. • Support with personal care and daily living tasks, including feeding, toileting, and mobility, as required. • Monitor and record students' progress, noting key developments and challenges. • Contribute to the creation of individualised learning plans and support strategies. • Foster a positive, safe, and nurturing environment where students feel encouraged and valued. • Collaborate with the teaching team and external professionals to ensure a holistic approach to student development. • Assist with students' social and emotional development, promoting independence and building confidence. For all these duties (and more) you will receive a first-class induction and ongoing training from qualified professionals. You will be assigned a 'buddy' to mentor you and make sure that you are confident in your new role, and you will have a teacher and senior TA who will set targets for you whilst supporting you. Person Specification: • Experience working with children or adults with PMLD, learning disabilities, or other special needs (desirable). • A patient, empathetic, and flexible approach to supporting students with complex needs. • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. • Good communication skills, both with students and colleagues. • Willingness to undertake further training, including safeguarding and manual handling. • A positive, can-do attitude and a genuine passion for supporting children with special educational needs. Qualifications: • A Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent) is desirable, but not essential. • Relevant qualifications or training in special educational needs, such as a Level 2 or 3 in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) would be an advantage. Why Join Us? • Be part of a supportive, friendly, and dedicated team. • Receive ongoing professional development and training opportunities. • Make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with profound and multiple learning disabilities. • Work in a nurturing environment with small class sizes, allowing for tailored and individual support. What We Offer • Hours of work are 35 hours per week ( 8:30am - 4pm), Monday to Friday, term time only. Flexible working will be considered. • Competitive and negotiable rates of pay. • Career progression opportunities within the school, for higher level TA posts with additional responsibilities. How to Apply: If you have a passion for supporting children with special needs and want to join a school that values diversity, inclusion, and personal development, we would love to hear from you. We consider applications throughout the year. To download an application form and Job description please visit our website on: www.rutherfordschool.org.uk. Completed applications are to be emailed to: rutherford@rutherfordschool.org.uk or sent by post to the attention of: HR Manager, Rutherford School, 1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon, CR2 7HZ. The vacancy advertised is subject to receiving two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS and medical clearance check. Rutherford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunity employer. References and DBS Disclosure will be required for the successful applicant. Photographic identification, evidence of right to work in the UK and certificates of any relevant qualifications will need to be provided at interview stage. We look forward to receiving your application! Ruther for d School, 1 a Melville Avenue, South Cr oydon, CR 2 7 HZ Tel: 020 8688 7560 , Fax: 020 8406 8220 Email: r uther for d@rutherfor dschool.org.uk Website: www.r utherfordschool.org.uk Registered C harity No. 272905