Teaching Assistant – Communication & Interaction Centre

Thrive Education is seeking an experienced and knowledgeable Teaching Assistant to join a primary school in Cheltenham, supporting pupils within a dedicated Communication & Interaction (C&I) Centre.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Teaching Assistant with a strong understanding of SEND, particularly Communication & Interaction needs, to become part of a supportive and specialist environment.

The role will initially be offered on a supply basis through Thrive Education, with the potential for the successful candidate to secure a permanent position within the school for the right person.

The Role

Working as part of the C&I provision, you will support pupils with a range of communication and interaction needs, helping them to access learning, develop their independence and participate positively in school life.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing consistent, high-quality support to pupils with additional needs
• Supporting pupils' communication, interaction, social and emotional development
• Implementing strategies and approaches tailored to individual communication needs
• Supporting pupils to access and engage with learning both within the C&I Centre and, where appropriate, the wider school
• Developing positive and trusting relationships with pupils
• Working collaboratively with teachers, SEND staff and other professionals
• Supporting pupils to develop independence and confidence
• Recognising and responding appropriately to individual needs and differences in communication
• Contributing to a calm, structured and inclusive learning environment

The Successful Candidate

The school is looking for someone who brings genuine experience and knowledge of working with children with SEND and, importantly, understands the specific considerations associated with Communication & Interaction needs.

You will ideally have:

• Previous experience working within a primary or specialist SEND setting
• Experience supporting children with Communication & Interaction needs
• A sound understanding of strategies which promote communication, engagement and independence
• The ability to adapt communication and learning activities to individual needs
• A calm, patient and consistent approach
• Strong observation and communication skills
• The ability to work effectively as part of a wider school and SEND team
• A commitment to inclusive, child-centred practice
• A relevant qualification in Teaching Assistance, SEND or a related area would be advantageous, although relevant experience and practical knowledge will be highly valued.

Why This Opportunity?

This role offers the opportunity to get to know the school, its pupils and its C&I provision through an initial supply placement, while giving both the candidate and school the opportunity to establish whether it is the right long-term fit.

For the right candidate, there is potential for the role to progress into permanent employment directly with the school.

If you are an experienced Teaching Assistant who is passionate about supporting children with Communication & Interaction needs and would like the opportunity to develop within a specialist provision, we would be keen to hear from you.