About this role
• Pushforward Secondary School Ltd • Address: Summer House, 24 Bury Road, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1JF • Salary: £24,000 per annum • Hours: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, Monday - Friday, Term time only • Contract: Permanent • Reference: 0960 We believe that every young person has the right to be an individual, to know they matter, have a voice, feel safe and confident enough to progress through the world in a way which makes them smile. We are all rubbish at lots of things, let’s concentrate on finding the things we are great at!
Your role The classroom-based Teaching Assistant will work as part of a dedicated team supporting KS4 (Key Stage 4) learners within a SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health) setting. Class sizes will typically be no more than six young people, enabling highly individualised support and strong, positive relationships to be developed. The role requires a nurturing, consistent and emotionally aware approach to supporting young people who may have a range of complex educational, social, emotional and behavioural needs. The successful candidate will work closely with teachers and the wider multidisciplinary team to ensure that each learner feels safe, understood, respected and able to engage in education. A key aspect of the role will be understanding and implementing the requirements of individual EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans), individual support plans, risk assessments and other relevant documentation. The Teaching Assistant will contribute to removing barriers to learning and supporting each learner to make meaningful academic, personal and social progress. The role will involve supporting learners in both an academic and pastoral capacity, including their preparation for qualifications, collection of evidence, development of employability and life skills, and progression towards appropriate post-16 destinations. What You will need You will have experience of working with young people in education, care, youth work or a similar setting, together with a genuine commitment to supporting young people with SEMH and/or additional needs. You will be patient, consistent and empathetic, able to build positive professional relationships and remain calm when situations are challenging. An understanding of SEND and the purpose of an EHCP is essential. Experience in an SEMH, alternative provision, specialist or SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) setting would be particularly welcome. Why Pushforward? We recognise that success looks different for every learner. Our approach is centred on understanding the young person behind the behaviour, recognising strengths and celebrating meaningful progress. You will join an eclectic, passionate team working together to change the path of young people who most need support. To find out more Please read the Job Description (Word). How to apply To apply and register your interest, please submit your CV (Curriculum Vitae) by emailing [email protected] Closing date: 1.00 pm, 8 October 2026. Interview date: 5.30 pm, 13 October 2026 at Bury St Edmunds in a Group interview process. We take safeguarding very seriously, so the successful candidate will be subject to references and DBS checks.