SEND Teaching Assistant - #2152232

The school supports pupils with a variety of needs including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), (PMLD), physical disabilities, sensory processing differences, medical needs, and complex communication difficulties. Learning is highly personalised, with a strong focus on developing communication, social skills, emotional wellbeing, life skills, and independence alongside academic achievement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support to pupils on a one-to-one basis and within small groups.
• Assist teachers in delivering engaging and accessible learning activities.
• Support pupils in working towards outcomes identified within their Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Promote communication through a range of methods including visual timetables, communication boards, PECS, Makaton, AAC devices, and other personalised communication strategies.
• Encourage and develop social interaction, independence, confidence, and self-esteem.
• Support pupils with sensory regulation and emotional wellbeing throughout the school day.
• Assist pupils with transitions between lessons and activities.
• Implement behaviour support plans and promote positive behaviour through consistent approaches.
• Support pupils during practical learning activities, community visits, life skills sessions, and enrichment opportunities.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, healthcare professionals, and families.
• Maintain accurate observations and contribute to pupil progress reviews.
• Provide personal care and support with feeding, toileting, changing, mobility, and medical requirements where necessary.
• Support moving and handling procedures in line with individual care plans.
• Ensure safeguarding and pupil welfare remain at the centre of all practice.
• Contribute positively to a supportive and inclusive school culture.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking individuals who demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for supporting children and young people with additional needs and who can build meaningful relationships with pupils.

Successful applicants are likely to possess:

• Experience working with children, young people, or vulnerable adults.
• A patient, caring, and nurturing nature.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• The ability to remain calm under pressure.
• A flexible and adaptable approach to supporting learning.
• Strong emotional resilience and a positive attitude.
• A commitment to promoting dignity, respect, and independence.
• The ability to celebrate small successes and recognise individual progress.

Desirable Experience

Applications are welcomed from candidates with experience in:

• SEND schools
• Mainstream schools with SEND provisions
• Autism support
• Learning disability services
• Residential children's homes
• Adult social care settings
• Healthcare environments
• Youth work
• Family support services
• Mental health services
• Behaviour support roles
• Early years settings
• Community outreach services

Training or experience in the following would be advantageous:

• Team Teach
• MAPA
• Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
• Makaton
• PECS
• Moving and Handling
• First Aid
• Personal Care
• Safeguarding
• Autism Awareness
• Sensory Integration Approaches