Haywards Farm School is a small, outstanding independent specialist school in West Berkshire, supporting up to 34 pupils. We work with children and young people who have a range of needs, including learning difficulties, autism (ASD), and social, emotional and mental health needs. Many of our pupils have experienced disrupted education and benefit from consistent, relational support to help them re-engage with learning, routines and school life. Our approach focuses on building trust, developing confidence and creating the conditions for every child to succeed.
About Stable Futures: Stable Futures, part of Amegreen Children's Services, is a specialist Alternative Provision offering Equine & Animal Assisted and Outdoor Learning programmes. Through therapeutic engagement with animals and an alternative curriculum including PSHE, Art & Design, Horticulture, Culinary Skills and Careers guidance, pupils build confidence, emotional regulation and engagement with learning. A dedicated forest school site adds hands on bushcraft experiences, helping young people reconnect with education and develop the skills for school life.
The Role
This is a unique opportunity for an energetic, compassionate Teaching Assistant to provide 1:1 support for a named student at the start of their school journey. Initially based full time within the Stable Futures provision, you will help the student develop the social, emotional and behavioural foundations to become "school ready" - supporting them to feel safe, build trust, improve attendance and grow in confidence. Over time, you will support a gradual transition into Haywards Farm School, working closely with the Stable Futures team, school staff and therapists to ensure a consistent, holistic approach aligned with the student's EHCP outcomes. Patience, consistency and emotional intelligence are essential. This role plays a vital part in helping a young person take their first steps back into education.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide consistent 1:1 support for a named student, helping them develop the social and emotional skills needed to become school ready
- Support the student to engage in sessions delivered through Stable Futures, including farm based and forest provision activities
- Build a strong, trusting relationship while maintaining clear structure and boundaries
- Use a calm, therapeutic approach to support behaviour and emotional regulation
- Share observations and progress updates with staff and, where appropriate, parents
- Work alongside therapists to implement strategies linked to EHCP objectives
- Support the student's gradual transition into Haywards Farm School, working closely with both the school and Stable Futures teams
You Will Ideally Have
- At least two years' experience in a similar role (SEN support, behaviour support, alternative provision, or residential childcare)
- Strong communication skills and emotional resilience
- A consistent, professional and calm approach to supporting vulnerable pupils
- Flexibility and creativity in adapting support to individual needs
- A passion for alternative and outdoor learning environments, including farm and forest settings
- Experience supporting pupils during transitions into education
- Physical capability for the demands of the role, including potential physical intervention in line with behaviour support plans
- Willingness to complete training in safe physical intervention techniques (essential)
Working Pattern and Benefits
- Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm, with minimal after hours commitments
- 10 INSET days across the year
- Therapeutic reflection and twice daily briefings to support strong practice
- Opportunities to collaborate across West Berkshire and partner schools
Additional Benefits
- Life insurance (death in service) - 4x annual salary
- Health cash plan (Health Shield) (after probation)
- Comprehensive training and development including CPD and therapeutic practice
- Free holiday accommodation - company holiday home on the south coast
- Blue Light Card and local partner discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential support)
- Enhanced employer pension contributions
- Company sick pay scheme (after 6 months' service)
- Electric car scheme and Cycle to Work
- Employee of the Month and long service awards
- Discounted driving lessons with local instructor
- Referral bonus scheme
Equality and Diversity
Amegreen is committed to creating a workplace where everyone can be their authentic selves in a safe, inclusive environment. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively seek to build diverse teams. If you require any accessibility adjustments to support your application, please contact us. Amegreen Children's Services is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and mandatory safeguarding and GDPR training, including a full employment history review.
How to apply:
