Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Full Time | Term Time Only
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 3:30pm

We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic and committed SEN Teaching Assistant to join a supportive secondary special-school environment, working with young people aged 11-17 with a range of complex learning needs.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting children and young people to learn, develop their independence and achieve their individual potential.

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and other members of the support team to provide high-quality learning and pastoral support to students with a range of additional needs.

You will support students both within the classroom and across the wider school environment, helping them to access their learning, develop communication and social skills, build confidence and become as independent as possible.

The role will involve working with young people who may have complex learning difficulties, communication needs, autism, sensory needs and other physical or medical requirements. Experience of working within an SEN setting is desirable, but we are also keen to hear from individuals with the right attitude, patience and willingness to learn.

• Provide one-to-one and small-group support to students where required.
• Work alongside teachers to support learning and classroom activities.
• Help students access the curriculum and take part in a wide range of activities.
• Encourage students to develop their independence, confidence and life skills.
• Support communication and positive social interaction.
• Provide appropriate support for students with sensory, physical or additional needs.
• Promote positive behaviour and help students manage their emotions and interactions.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with students.
• Follow individual support plans and contribute to students' development and progress.
• Work closely with teachers, therapists and other professionals involved in supporting students.
• Assist with personal care where required, maintaining dignity, respect and confidentiality at all times.
• Support students during break times, lunchtimes and activities outside the classroom.
• Contribute to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive learning environment.
• Follow all safeguarding, health and safety and school policies.

We are looking for someone who is:

• Caring, patient and genuinely passionate about working with young people.
• Positive, enthusiastic and able to build strong relationships.
• Calm and confident when supporting students with complex needs.
• Reliable, flexible and able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Able to encourage and motivate students while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• A good communicator with a willingness to learn and develop.
• Committed to promoting inclusion, independence and positive outcomes for every student.

Previous experience working with children or young people with SEND, autism, complex learning difficulties or additional needs would be an advantage, but is not essential for the right candidate.