Silver Linings Therapeutic School
Due to two of our longstanding Teaching and Learning Assistants moving to our new secondary provision to support the transition of our Year 6 pupils, we are delighted to be recruiting two Therapeutic Teaching and Learning Assistants to join our growing team.
At Silver Linings Therapeutic School, we believe that children thrive when they feel safe, understood and connected. We are a specialist primary setting supporting pupils aged 5–11 with complex social, emotional and mental health needs, experiences of developmental trauma, and neurodiverse profiles.
Located in NG8, our therapeutic approach is grounded in Dyadic Developmental Practice (DDP) and the principles of PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy). We work from the belief that behaviour is communication and that meaningful change happens through relationships. Therapy is not something that happens separately from school life; it is woven throughout every interaction, every lesson and every relationship.
Our guiding principle is simple: connection before correction.
We are looking for colleagues who share our commitment to seeing beyond behaviour, building trusting relationships and helping children develop the confidence, resilience and self-regulation skills they need to flourish.
What we offer
- Small class sizes that allow meaningful relationships to develop
- A genuinely therapeutic and trauma-informed culture
- Training and ongoing professional development in trauma-informed and DDP-informed practice
- Opportunities to contribute to the continued growth and development of our school
- A strong commitment to staff wellbeing, including an annual wellbeing day
- Staff lunch provided each day
- On-site parking
- Opportunities for progression as our provision expands
- Dedicated team reflection and planning time
- A supportive and collaborative multidisciplinary team
If you are looking for a school where relationships matter, where reflective practice is valued, and where every adult plays a vital role in helping children heal, grow and learn, Silver Linings could be the place for you.
About the Role
Salary: £23,220 – £24,480 (pro rata)
Full-time equivalent: £26,832 – £28,600
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
As a Therapeutic Teaching and Learning Assistant, you will work closely with teachers, therapists and the wider team to create a safe, nurturing and engaging learning environment. You will support pupils who may have experienced developmental trauma, disrupted education or significant emotional challenges, helping them to feel regulated, connected and ready to learn.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting pupils through therapeutic, trauma-informed and relational approaches
- Helping to implement individual therapeutic and educational strategies
- Supporting emotional regulation and wellbeing throughout the school day
- Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and families
- Building trusting, attuned relationships with pupils
- Contributing to a reflective and supportive team culture
Who We Are Looking For
We welcome applications from individuals with experience in:
- SEMH settings
- Alternative provision
- Youth work
- Social care
- Psychology
- Therapeutic or trauma-informed practice
However, experience alone is not what matters most.
We are particularly interested in hearing from people who are:
- Compassionate and emotionally attuned
- Calm and able to remain regulated during times of challenge
- Reflective and open to learning
- Curious about children's experiences and behaviour
- Relational in their approach to supporting others
- Passionate about helping children succeed
This vacancy may close before the advertised closing date if sufficient suitable applications are received. Early applications are therefore encouraged.
We warmly encourage prospective applicants to visit the school. To arrange a tour with our Headteacher, Daisy, please contact us directly.
Job Type: Permanent
Pay: £26,832.00-£28,660.00 per year
Work Location: In person
