Key Role Information

Salary
£18,539.79 - £20,088.00 + Fringe Allowance £729
Job type
Permanent
Contract type
Permanent
Closing
28/11/2025 09:00
Interview
3 December 2025
Contract term
TTO - Term time only
Pay grade
NJC | SCP8 - SCP13
Department
Hawthorn Academy
Key stage
Not Applicable
Hours per week
30.50
Weeks per year
43.600
Visa sponsorship
No

Your Role

‘..Make a Difference Every Day....’

Hawthorn Academy is looking for a caring, resilient and motivated Teaching Assistant to support secondary-aged pupils (11–16) with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. This is a fantastic opportunity if you’re passionate about helping young people overcome challenges, re-engage with learning and build confidence.

Hawthorn Academy is part of The Propeller Academy Trust and provides a nurturing, trauma-informed environment for pupils with SEMH needs. Our staff are dedicated, compassionate and committed to helping every young person grow emotionally, socially and academically. We offer a supportive, highly resourced setting where you can develop professionally and make a real impact.

What we Offer

  • Competitive salary + £729 Fringe Allowance
  • Full induction programme and ongoing SEMH and trauma informed training
  • Paid wellbeing days, free flu vaccinations and on-site parking
  • Flexible working options (part-time or job share considered)
  • Local Government Pension (LGPS)
  • Employee assistance programme
  • Refer-a-friend scheme (earn up to £500)
  • Supportive, highly skilled staff team and therapeutic school culture

About the Role

  • Support pupils with SEMH needs in lessons, small groups and 1:1
  • Build positive, trusting relationships with young people
  • Use trauma-informed and restorative approaches to promote positive behaviour
  • Support learning in subjects such as English, maths, PE, life skills and vocational areas
  • Help pupils develop emotional regulation, independence and confidence
  • Work closely with teachers, therapists and families

About you

  • GCSE English and maths (Grade 4/C or equivalent)
  • Experience supporting children or young people (school, care, youth work etc.)
  • Calm, patient, emotionally resilient and able to be a consistent, positive role model.
  • A strong team player with excellent communication skills
  • Experience with SEMH or secondary-aged pupils (desirable but not essential)

How to Apply

To apply for this rewarding opportunity, please apply online via the link provided. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

To arrange a visit or to find out more, please contact the School Business Manager, on 0118 359 2449.

Safeguarding and Equality

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.

 

Benefits

Fringe Allowance
Fringe Allowance £729

Qualifications

GCSEs in Maths and English (grade 4-9) or equivalentessential

About Us

Hawthorn academy is dedicated to supporting every child’s social, emotional, and mental well-being alongside their learning, so they can grow into confident, fulfilled individuals.

We are more than a school; we are a caring community built on trust, respect, and understanding. Every pupil who joins us brings their own unique story and strengths, and we feel privileged to walk alongside them as they develop confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of self.

Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do. We listen to their voices, value their perspectives, and involve them in shaping their learning and school community. This ensures that each young person feels empowered, respected, and truly included.

We provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where students feel valued and supported to build meaningful relationships, explore their interests, and develop the skills needed to thrive both inside and beyond the classroom.

Our commitment extends beyond school walls. By working closely with families, carers, professionals, and the wider community, we provide a supportive network that surrounds each pupil with encouragement and opportunities for growth.

We are proud of the inclusive, empowering environment we are building — and we’re excited to have you with us as part of the Hawthorn Academy family. Together, we will create a place where every child can flourish, belong, and prepare for a positive future.

Hawthorn Academy

Gemma Wheatman

recruitment@hawthornacademy.org.uk

West Road
Off Old Wokingham Road
Wokingham
Reading
RG40 3BT

Safeguarding Information

The Propeller Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This role involves a high level of contact with children or vulnerable adults and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check (including Barred List where applicable) and online searches for publicly available information.

We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or pregnancy/maternity.