Teaching Assistant (SEND – Visual Impairment Support)
Clifton Hill School, Caterham
Part-time: 35.15 hours per week
(Mon–Thurs 8.30-4.30 Fri 8.30–3.20, some flexibility available)
WMAT Associate Scale WA3 Salary: term time only + INSET days £20,509 (FTE £24,420 - £26,16)
Start date: September 2026
About the Role
We are seeking a committed and flexible Teaching Assistant to join our team, with a specific focus on supporting a student with a visual impairment who is learning Braille.
This role combines the variety of a Teaching Assistant position across the school with the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities supporting personalised access to learning.
You will:
- Support a young person with a visual impairment in class and throughout the school day
- Help adapt learning materials into accessible formats, including Braille
- Enable the student to access the curriculum and develop independence
- Work as part of the wider class team, supporting other pupils where needed
- Contribute to a positive, inclusive and supportive learning environment
Specialist Support & Training
This role offers the opportunity to develop skills in supporting visual impairment within education, with strong support in place:
- Regular input and guidance from the Sight for Surrey Visual Impairment (VI) Service
- Ongoing training in adapting resources and supporting access to learning
- Close collaboration with teaching staff and external professionals
No prior experience of Braille is required — training will be provided.
Clifton Hill School is a friendly and successful specialist school for students aged 11 to 19 with severe learning difficulties, autism and complex needs, including physical and medical needs.
We are proud of our:
- Supportive and collaborative staff team
- High expectations for all pupils
- Commitment to inclusion and personalised learning
We are looking for someone who is:
- Patient, adaptable and proactive
- Able to build positive relationships with young people
- Interested in supporting pupils with a range of needs, including visual impairment
- Willing to learn new skills and work as part of a team
- Resilient and enthusiastic
Experience working with children, young people or in a care setting is helpful but not essential.
What We Offer
- A supportive working environment with experienced colleagues
- Training and development opportunities, including specialist input
- A comprehensive benefits and wellbeing package
- Local government pension scheme
Apply Now - We encourage early applications and may interview before the closing date.
Safeguarding Statement:
Clifton Hill school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, governors and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check, health check and other safer recruitment checks, including online searches.
Applications will only be accepted on our online application form. CV's will not be considered. No agencies please