Job Description

SEND Teaching Assistant (Secondary)

De Jong Academy

Part-time | 24 hours per week | Monday-Thursday, 9:00am-3:00pm
Self-employed basis (with potential for future employment)
Salary negotiable, dependent on experience

About De Jong Academy

De Jong Academy is a small, nurturing secondary provision currently awaiting registration as an independent school. We are proud of our personalised, relationship-led approach, supporting young people to re-engage with learning, build emotional regulation skills, and achieve their potential in a calm and respectful environment.

As a growing Academy, we offer a rare opportunity to be part of a school at its formative stage, where your voice, expertise, and commitment will genuinely shape systems, practice, and culture. There is clear potential for future employed roles as the Academy develops.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly capable SEND Teaching Assistant to join our team. This is a varied, hands-on role ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about supporting young people with additional needs -- particularly those who experience emotional dysregulation or barriers to learning.

You will work closely with students, teaching staff, and the Senior Leadership Team, combining direct student support with SEND-focused input, pastoral awareness, and some administrative and reception responsibilities.

This role suits someone confident, proactive, and reflective, who can balance warmth and structure while maintaining professional boundaries.

Key Responsibilities: Student Support (Secondary Focus)

Provide tailored in-class and out-of-class support to secondary-aged students, including those with SEND and emotional needs. Support students with emotional regulation, engagement, and positive behaviour strategies. Build trusted, professional relationships with students to promote confidence, resilience, and readiness to learn. Assist with the review and monitoring of students' individual needs and progress. Implement and contribute to strategies outlined in support plans, EHCPs (where applicable), or internal plans. Support students during transitions, break times, and key points of the school day as required. Work collaboratively with teaching staff to adapt learning approaches and resources.

SEND & Pastoral Contribution

Contribute observations and insights to help shape SEND provision and student support strategies. Support the identification of emerging needs and contribute to early intervention approaches. Maintain accurate and professional records related to student support. Uphold safeguarding responsibilities at all times.

Administrative & Reception Support

Provide administrative support to the Senior Leadership Team, as needed. Assist with reception duties, including welcoming visitors and supporting day-to-day school operations. Support the smooth running of the Academy by taking on varied tasks in a flexible, solutions-focused way.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who brings high-level experience and/or strong theoretical knowledge of SEND and secondary education.

You will ideally have:

Significant experience supporting young people with SEND and/or emotional and behavioural needs. A strong understanding of emotional dysregulation, trauma-informed practice, and inclusive education. Confidence working independently and using professional judgement. Excellent communication skills and a calm, consistent approach. The ability to adapt quickly in a developing school environment. A genuine passion for helping young people succeed.
Experience within alternative provision, independent schools, SEMH settings, or similar environments is highly desirable.

What We Offer

A meaningful role where your work has visible impact every day. The opportunity to help shape SEND provision within a growing Academy. A supportive, values-driven team. Potential for future employed roles as the school expands. Negotiable salary, reflective of experience and expertise.

How to Apply

Please submit:

A

CV

A

cover letter

outlining your experience, approach to SEND support, and why you would like to work with De Jong Academy. Please send your cover letter to office@dejongacademy.co.uk

Safeguarding & Compliance

De Jong Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an

Enhanced DBS check

(including a check against the children's barred list, where applicable).

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From 12.50 per hour

Expected hours: 24 per week

Benefits:

Company events Employee discount Free parking On-site parking
Education:

Bachelor's (required)
Experience:

SEND: 1 year (required)
Location:

Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9NW (preferred)
Work Location: In person