Teaching Assistant - Wyvern Academy

Have you ever seen a pupil’s face light up when they finally master something they’ve been struggling with?

That moment of triumph is what keeps us going – because, truthfully, getting there isn’t always easy. At Wyvern Academy, you’ll work with pupils whose needs can be complex, communication can be challenging, and days don’t always go to plan.

Some days will be busy, noisy, and full of surprises; other days will test your patience, resilience, and creativity in ways you never expected.

But in between the challenges, you’ll also experience the kind of moments you can’t quite put into words:

A pupil saying your name for the first time.

A young person who usually struggles to regulate starts managing… because of your support.

A child who rarely engages reaching out to hold your hand.

Or that quiet smile from a teenager who doesn’t easily show emotion but absolutely notices your presence.

These moments – tiny to the world, huge to us – are what make this work unlike anything else.

If you want a role that’s as real as it is rewarding, where progress comes in all shapes and sizes and where you can make a genuine difference in the lives of young people, you may have found the right place.

What you’ll be doing:

• Support pupils in ways that are truly individual to them – often one‑to‑one, sometimes in small groups, and always with empathy.
• Deliver personalised learning for pupils whose communication, sensory or behavioural needs may require patience, consistency, and adaptability.
• Help pupils manage big emotions, sensory needs, and moments of overwhelm -calmly, safely and with compassion.
• Create a supportive, predictable environment where pupils feel safe to try, fail, try again, and grow.
• Keep the day running smoothly, even when plans change suddenly (as they often do).
• Celebrate every breakthrough – even if it took three attempts, two plan‑Bs, and a deep breath to get there.
• Work closely with teachers, therapists and colleagues to support each pupil’s programme of learning and care.
• Provide personal care with dignity and respect, supported by full training.
• Bring curiosity, positivity and creativity into lessons through sensory activities, structured play, music and humour – because joy matters here.

Who we’re looking for:

• Someone patient, calm and grounded – even when the day is loud, unpredictable or emotionally demanding.
• A kind‑hearted person who can offer reassurance during challenging moments and celebrate even the smallest steps of progress.
• Experience with children or young people is helpful, but what matters most is your resilience, compassion and willingness to learn.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, including the ability to adapt when things don’t go to plan.
• Someone who thrives in a team, values honesty and isn’t afraid of the tough moments – because they’re part of the journey.
• A positive energy and a sense of humour – because you’ll need both!

Here’s the honest part: this job will challenge you. Some days are tough, unpredictable, and messy. But the wins – a calm transition, a shared smile, a new word, a tiny step forward – are powerful. They’re the moments that remind you why you showed up.

If you want a role where the progress is real, the impact is deep, and the rewards come from honest human connection, then Wyvern might just be the place where you make your difference.

Become part of our journey by completing our Support Staff Application Form and returning it to [email protected] if you would like to apply (please see our Teaching Assistant Job Description and our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy for further information). If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Isabel at the recruitment address, who will be happy to assist you.

Closing Date: 5th April 2026

Interview Date: 15th April 2026

Please note: Applications may be viewed on receipt and interviews arranged sooner than the above date.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, this role involves directly working with children and significant contact with children, and therefore we expect all staff and volunteers to share the same commitment. Please ensure a full work history is completed in your application form including any gaps of employment. Applicants will be required to complete satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check for this post prior to commencement. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. The Trust is an equal opportunities employer.

If successfully shortlisted the HR Department will also be conducting an individual online search including social media platforms of your ‘name, education and employment’, to demonstrate due diligence following ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ guidance. The search will not form part of the actual shortlisting process and any concerns arising from the search will be discussed directly with you.

About us:

At Wyvern Academy, part of the Southern Education Trust, we’re passionate about “making lives better” by creating an environment where every child, regardless of their challenges, can shine. We specialise in supporting children and young people aged 2 to 19 years with learning difficulties, including autism, physical and sensory disabilities and healthcare needs.

We are a place where progress is celebrated – even when it looks different from pupil to pupil – and where relationships, patience and perseverance matter just as much as qualifications.

Why join us?

• The chance to make a huge difference in the lives of young people, one small victory at a time.
• Comprehensive support, Induction and training package
• Professional development opportunities because we’re all about helping you grow, both as a person and in your ability to juggle six things at once!
• You will be part of an inclusive and collaborative team that, no matter what the challenge may be, are ready to face it head on and are committed to seeing it through.
• The opportunity to develop your career in a School and Southern Education Trust, a growing Trust.