Salary: £17,212 pro rata per annum, based on 30 hours per week, 39 weeks per year (term time plus inset days) Locations: Various campuses including Winton, West Howe and Christchurch It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. Linwood School is an 'Outstanding' (Ofsted January 2018) multi-campus, day special school dedicated to serving children and young people aged 4–19. We embrace a diverse community, welcoming students from all backgrounds and addressing a wide range of special educational needs, including moderate (MLD), severe (SLD), profound (PMLD), and complex learning difficulties (CLDD), as well as those on the Autism spectrum. We currently employ around 180 dedicated Teaching Assistants and are excited to expand our team with motivated individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of our students. By joining our growing family at Linwood School, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a vibrant learning environment that values every child's potential. About the Role This role can be both challenging and rewarding. We are looking for individuals who demonstrate resilience, empathy, and effective communication skills. Previous experience working with children and young people with learning difficulties or social communication challenges is desirable but not essential, as full training will be provided for those who need it. Some of our Teaching Assistants work with students with PMLD who require high levels of care including but not limited to: • Intimate and personal care • Assistance with eating and drinking • Administering medication Full training will be provided if needed however, if you have the skills and aptitudes outlined above please refer to this in your application form. Position Details Hours: While this role is advertised as 30 hours per week over 5 days, Monday to Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), consideration will be given to those seeking fewer hours, but we ask that applicants commit to a minimum of 2 full days (12 hours). Probation: A 6-month mandatory probation period applies, during which Teaching Assistants are expected to attend paid Monday after-school training sessions. Campus: Appointments are made to Linwood School and we currently have vacancies across most campuses. Successful candidates could be based at any of our campuses in line with their skills, abilities, experience and campus requirement. Career Progression: We offer clear pathways for career advancement, leading to roles such as Specialist Provision Teaching Assistant and Higher Level Teaching Assistant. Some of our Teaching Assistants have progressed to Teacher level. Benefits Benefits provided by BCP Council and directly through Linwood School include: An Employee Assistance Programme for staff wellbeing Leisure & retail discounts through ‘BCP our benefits’ website Paid after-school training to support professional development Career development opportunities Long Service Awards Commitment to Diversity At Linwood School, we take pride in being an equal opportunities employer that champions a diverse workforce. We actively seek and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, recognising that a rich tapestry of experiences enhances our ability to support our diverse student population. Our commitment to diversity not only fosters a sense of belonging but also strengthens the learning environment for everyone involved. Safeguarding Commitment Linwood School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and an overseas criminal records check if they have lived or worked outside the UK in the past 10 years. Employment offers are also subject to satisfactory references, health assessments, and right-to-work checks. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and its amendments. If the role is exempt, certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected’, so they do not need to be disclosed. All staff are expected to adhere to our safeguarding and child protection policies, including Keeping Children Safe in Education. For any enquiries regarding the role or your application, please contact the HR Department at 01202 636811. Interviews are scheduled for the week beginning 10th February 2025. We look forward to welcoming you to our Linwood family