Fixed Term, Part Time, Teaching Assistant
31.25hrs per week, Monday – Friday 8.30am – 3.15pm Term Time Only
The Governors of Westfield Nursery & Primary School wish to appoint an experienced Teaching Assistant (Level 2) to work as one to one support with a child who communicates through British Sign Language (BSL), ensuring their full inclusion in the school environment and supporting their educational and social needs. The post will be from 1st September 2025 and is fixed term as it is subject to the child remaining at Westfield Nursery & Primary School.
Key Responsibilities:
• Provide direct support to the child, using BSL to facilitate communication and learning in all school activities.
• Adapt and modify teaching materials to make them accessible for the child.
• Support the child in developing both academic and social skills
• Work closely with the class teacher and SENC0 to implement tailored learning plans and strategies.
• Assist in classroom management and encourage the child’s participation in lessons and school life.
• Act as an advocate for the child’s needs, ensuring they have equal opportunities to access education.
• Liaise with parents, carers and external professionals such as speech and language therapists or educational psychologists.
• Provide support during break times, lunchtimes and school trips to ensure the child remains included and engaged.
• Maintain records and track the child’s progress, contributing to reports and review meetings.
• Foster a safe and inclusive environment for the child and their peers.
Person Specification:
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
• Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent experience
• Experience of BSL (training will be given)
• Experience working with children with communication needs.
• Strong understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and inclusive teaching practices.
Desirable qualifications & Experience:
• Proficiency in British Sign Language (BSL Level 2 or above)
• Experience working with children with hearing impairments
• Experience working in an educational setting.
• Knowledge of assistive communication tools and technologies
Skills & Attributes
• Excellent communication skills in both spoken and signed language
• Patient, empathetic and supportive approach to working with children
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, parents and external professionals
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
In return we can offer:
• A collaborative working environment with supporting staff
• An experienced team who will offer a high level of support
• CPD Opportunities
• A school that ensures that the safeguarding and mental health and well-being of pupils and staff is a priority.
Westfield Nursery & Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, an enhanced DBS check including the barring list will be required for the successful candidate and other procedures and checks will be followed as laid out in our Safer Recruitment Policy.
Please contact school if you wish to discuss the job role further.
Application forms and further information is available on our school website: https://www.westfieldprimary.cumbria.sch.uk/vacancies/
Completed application forms to be submitted to admin@westfieldprimary.cumbria.sch.uk
Closing date – Monday 24th March 2025 @ 3pm
Short listing – Tuesday 25th March 2025
Interviews - Tuesday 1st April 2025
Visits to school are welcome please contact the office on 01900 874000 or email admin@westfieldprimary.cumbria.sch.uk