James Rennie School

California Road

Carlisle

CA3 0BU

Headteacher: Ms Kerry Dunbobbin  Regional Director: Mr Kris Williams

T: 01228 554280  E: adminoffice@jamesrennie.cumbria.sch.uk  W: www.jamesrennie.cumbria.sch.uk

We are looking to recruit a Teaching Assistant (TA3) - Extended Schools and Family Support Coordinator to work within our established team of practitioners in our school. 

If you are looking for a role within an exciting academy trust who employ outstanding practitioners. If you want to be part of an established team where you receive personalised training and support in communication, understanding behaviour, health support, Autism and other learning disabilities to support our young people.  If you want access to a commitment to continued professional development, an online learning platform, specialist training in Makaton and Team Teach. If you want to work at a school with outstanding facilities such as a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms, soft play, horticultural area, an outdoor learning area and independent living facilities. Then we would like to hear from you. Level 3 teaching assistant qualification is essential.

James Rennie School is a well-established special school in the Kingstown area of Carlisle, With an additional Sixth Form site at St Edmunds Park. We currently have up to 217 students on roll ranging from 3-19 within our well- equipped and modern facilities. We would like the successful candidates to be enthusiastic people who can work proactively with our class teachers.  We are a dynamic, caring school with a warm and friendly ethos and we expect all of our staff to use this ethos within their working practices. The ability to be proactive and flexible is necessary, and the ability/willingness to work with all ages throughout school is desirable.

Key Responsibilities of the Role:

Extended Schools Provision (Main Site)

• Plan, promote, and coordinate after-school and lunchtime clubs, ensuring inclusive access and pupil safety
• Produce a termly extended schools programme, informed by pupil voice and quality assured by Senior Leadership Team
• Ensure parental consent, risk assessments, and consideration of health care and positive handling plans
• Coordinate travel arrangements and staffing rotas, ensuring appropriate cover and registers are maintained
• Maintain accurate pupil attendance records and provide termly reports to Senior Leadership Team
• Promote positive behaviour in line with school policy

Safeguarding and Welfare

• Act as a help alarm responder - Helping classes when they need extra support 
• Maintain strong safeguarding awareness and report concerns in line with school procedures
• Promote pupil wellbeing and a safe environment during extended school activities
• Participate in safeguarding training and whole-school CPD

Pastoral Support

• Deliver one-to-one and small group pastoral support under the direction of senior pastoral staff
• Support pupils with SEMH needs, wellbeing, and engagement
• Work collaboratively with teaching and support staff to embed pastoral strategies across school life
• Use ICT effectively for record keeping and communication

Grant Applications and Resource Management

• Research, identify, and apply for grants and funding opportunities to enhance pastoral and extended provision
• Manage allocated budgets related to extended schools and PTFA activities
• Liaise with the Finance Officer to monitor budgets in line with school finance policy
• Prepare annual reports on activities, finances, and budget projections
• Establish and review Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure value for money

PTFA and Parental Engagement

• Coordinate and support the Parent Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA)
• Organise fundraising events and family learning activities
• Act as Treasurer for the PTFA, completing financial administration and arranging annual audits
• Maintain the PTFA website and JustGiving page
• Build positive relationships with families and support those who find engagement challenging

Communication and Collaboration

• Act as a key point of contact for families regarding extended provision and pastoral support
• Liaise with senior leaders to align extended schools and pastoral work with school improvement priorities
• Share best practice and contribute to a multidisciplinary team approach

Essential Skills & Experience & Qualifications

• Experience supporting pupils with SEND and/or additional needs
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of safeguarding procedures and commitment to pupil wellbeing
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Competence in ICT for administration and communication
• GCSE Maths and English Grade 4 or above (or equivalent)
• A relevant qualification or training either in teaching support or special educational needs
• Experience of working with Primary and/or Secondary school age children preferably within a learning environment
• Experience of working with children with special educational needs and/or complex learning difficulties.

Professional Development

• Commitment to ongoing training in safeguarding, SEND, pastoral care, and mental health
• Participation in whole-school CPD and professional learning opportunities
• Access to leadership and career development pathways within the school

If you would like more information please email oliver.wilson@jamesrennie.cumbria.sch.uk or visit our vacancy section of our website (www.jamesrennie.cumbria.sch.uk)

James Rennie School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Therefore, an enhanced DBS check including the barred list will be required for the successful candidate and other procedures and checks will be followed as laid out in our Safeguarding Policy.

Diversity Statement

At Eden Academy Trust, we value and actively embrace diversity. We believe that a diverse school community strengthens learning, enriches experiences, and helps every child thrive.

Across our schools, we are committed to creating a culture where all individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or background are respected, represented, and supported.

We understand the role of inclusive education in preparing young people for a complex and diverse society. We challenge discrimination, recognise and celebrate difference, and work continuously to promote equity and opportunity in everything we do.

Our commitment to inclusion runs through our curriculum, our staffing and leadership, our policies, and our day-to-day interactions. We strive to practise cultural humility, anti-racism, and equitable approaches that meet the needs of all our pupils.