Pupil Support Worker / Teaching Assistant

Location: Primary at the Bay - Tipner Lane, Tipner, Portsmouth, PO2 8RA

Pupil Support Worker – The Bay Campus, Primary Provision

37 hours per week, Term time only, Permanent

£26,427 – £27,274 per annum (pro rata to £22,461-£23,340) per annum for term time only working)

Please note: UK driving licence and vehicle with business insurance is essential

Do you want to be the adult who helps a young person feel confident enough to take part, brave enough to try something new, and proud of what their body and mind can achieve?

Are you looking for a role where every day is different, every challenge is real, and every success – no matter how small – is truly life-changing?

Some students don’t fit into the mainstream – and that’s okay. They need a different kind of school, and we need a different kind of person. Someone who sees beyond the behaviour, who understands that trust takes time, and who knows that sometimes, just getting through the door is a victory.

We’re looking for a dedicated Pupil Support Worker to join The Bay Campus at The Harbour School, supporting children and young people in our primary provision with complex social, emotional and mental health needs who have an Education, Health and Care Plan.

As a Pupil Support Worker, you will:

• Work closely with teachers to support students in small groups and one-to-one, helping them engage with learning and rebuild confidence.
• Encourage resilience, emotional regulation, and positive choices, even on the hardest days.
• Work closely with families, and external professionals to provide the support our students need.
• Celebrate the small wins – because for some of our students, just showing up is a victory.
• Help students achieve their individual learning and behaviour targets.
• Supervise and support targeted students, both inside and outside of the classroom, promoting engagement and positive learning experiences.

We are looking for someone who:

• Sees the child, not the behaviour and can be a champion for young people who’ve struggled in mainstream education.
• Stays steady when emotions run high, is patient, understanding, and skilled at building positive relationships.
• Is a team player, who’s patient and understands that progress takes time.
• Helps students navigate emotions, frustrations, and challenges – showing them that adults can be reliable.
• Has experience of working with children and has knowledge or experience in SEMH, alternative provision, youth work, or a related field – or just a deep understanding of how tough life can be for some kids.
• Has 5 GCSE’s with a minimum grade C or above in English and Mathematics, or at least equivalent Level 2 qualifications in Literacy & Numeracy with relevant experience
• Never gives up. Even on the tough days. Especially on the tough days.