Teaching Assistant

Full Job Description

Work Smarter. Live Better. Join the 4-Day Working Week!

Job Title: SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Manor House School, Slinfold, Horsham, RH13 0QX
Hours:      40 hours per week | Monday to Friday
Salary:     Up to £24,000 per annum depending on experience (not pro rata)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start:        February 2026
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available

At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay.*

Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW — and others are preparing to roll it out as soon as they reach full staffing. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG!

About the Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant you’ll play a vital role in helping our pupils thrive. This is more than a support role — it’s your chance to make a real, lasting difference in the lives of young people.

You will:

• Support pupils individually and in groups, helping them develop literacy, numeracy, communication, and social skills
• Assist with planning and delivering engaging lessons and learning activities
• Implement positive behaviour strategies and maintain a calm, encouraging classroom atmosphere
• Prepare classroom resources and support enriching trips and school activities
• Maintain accurate records of pupil progress and behaviour
• Work closely with teachers, therapy staff, and pastoral teams
• Supervise pupils during break and lunch periods

About You

We’re looking for someone who is patient, resilient and passionate about supporting young people:

• Grade C (or equivalent) in English and Maths
• A calm, consistent and nurturing approach
• A strong team player with excellent communication skills
• A genuine commitment to helping pupils overcome barriers and succeed

About Us

Manor House School is an independent co-educational school for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. We provide a small, supportive environment where personalised learning helps pupils rebuild confidence and engage with education. Our dedicated staff foster positive relationships, emotional wellbeing, and a calm, nurturing atmosphere. Through tailored support and a broad curriculum, we empower pupils to achieve success and prepare for life beyond school.

Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.

We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.

Why Join Us?

We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.

• Life Assurance
• Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
• “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
• Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
  • Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
  • Hundreds of UK and international discounts
  • Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
  • Critical illness cover
  • Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support

*Subject to successful probation. Not a contractual benefit.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.

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