Position: Teaching Assistant (TA) / Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Hours: Full-time (Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 16:30 – reduced hours may be negotiable)
Salary: £22,000 to £28,000 (actual salary, not pro-rata)
Term: Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Closing Date: 31 January 2025
About Toucan Education
Toucan Education is a dynamic and rapidly expanding alternative provision in the North East. With two hubs and a forest school base in Newcastle and Gateshead, we specialise in providing bespoke educational approaches for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Founded in 2016, our focus is on creating innovative, student-centred learning experiences that make a difference.
We are proud to offer a supportive and inclusive work environment, prioritising staff wellbeing and work-life balance. Our teaching assistants are a valued part of our team, and we reflect this through above-average pay, training opportunities, and year-round salaries.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a passionate and adaptable TA / HLTA to join our team. You will work across our hubs in Newcastle, Blaydon, our forest school, and in community-based settings. This role involves supporting vulnerable students, many of whom have high SEN needs and require unique and tailored learning plans.
This is a challenging yet deeply rewarding position, ideal for someone who thrives in a varied and active environment. At Toucan, no two days are the same, and you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of our students.
Key Responsibilities
1. Assist in planning and delivering engaging learning and behavioural activities for individuals and groups inline with Toucan’s values.
2. Provide feedback on students’ progress and support their participation and achievement.
3. Foster independent thinking and learning through effective interaction and questioning.
4. Support the emotional and social wellbeing of students, including the implementation of related programs.
5. Supervise and assist students during educational visits and community activities.
6. Promote and safeguard the welfare of pupils, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
What We’re Looking For
1. Educational Background: Qualifications in teaching assistance, education, psychology, or a related field are preferred. Candidates with equivalent experience are also encouraged to apply.
2. Experience: Prior experience working with students with SEN in traditional or alternative education settings, including mentoring or tutoring, is highly valued.
3. Skills: Excellent communication, patience, empathy, and organizational skills.
4. Understanding of Alternative Education: Familiarity with student-centred learning and personalised instruction.
5. Flexibility: Willingness to work across multiple sites and with students aged 5–16. A valid driving license is preferred.
6. Enthusiasm: A positive, proactive, adaptable approach and a passion for outdoor and community-based learning.
Our Commitment to You
1. A competitive salary above national expectations, and a company pension.
2. Salary shown is what you’ll actually be paid (not pro-rata).
3. Training opportunities, including Team Teach, Safeguarding, and First Aid.
4. Professional development pathways to help you shape your ideal role.
Our Values
1. Holistic, person-centred support for students and their families.
2. Empathy, compassion, and care in all interactions.
3. Collaboration with schools and children’s services to improve outcomes for students with SEN.
4. Engagement and development of students’ social and educational skills.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about making a difference and would like to join our welcoming team, please complete the application form which can be downloaded here or by emailing recruitment@toucaneducation.com to request a copy.
Please also see Supporting Documents to download from this page.
Please then return it to recruitment@toucaneducation.com - please note, CVs cannot be accepted.
All appointments are subject to references, safeguarding checks, including enhanced DBS clearance.
Thank you for considering this opportunity at Toucan Education. We look forward to hearing from you!
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