Most SEND teaching assistant roles leave you exhausted, undervalued, and watching young people struggle because the support just isn't there. This is different: you'll work in a specialist school where your skill in managing complex needs and challenging behaviours actually transforms how young people learn, thrive and see themselves. We're looking for someone with real SEND experience who's ready to make that difference
Imagine walking into a classroom where you're not just managing behaviour or filling in worksheets, but actively mentoring young people aged 8 to 19 with complex needs. You'll support them through curriculum-based learning, home tuition, outreach visits and outdoor activities that meet them where they are. Every day you'll see learners who've been written off start to engage, communicate and achieve
The school is built on specialist provision for young people with moderate to severe learning difficulties and the social, emotional, interaction and sensory challenges that come with them. You won't be the only one trying to hold everything together; you'll be part of a team that genuinely believes in these young people and has the structure, training and headspace to support them properly
You'll report daily on progress and barriers to learning, work closely with parents and carers, and contribute to behaviour plans that actually work. This isn't just a job where you're reacting to crisis; it's work where your observations and experience directly shape how young people are supported. That's the kind of role that sticks with you
What you will be doing
- Support learners with curriculum-based learning in the classroom, during home tuition visits, on outreach and through outdoor activities tailored to their needs
- Assist with preparing learning materials and delivering learning objectives, with a strong focus on behavioural management and de-escalation
- Record daily observations on learner progress and any barriers to learning, feeding this back to teachers and the wider team
- Build positive relationships with parents and carers through regular, honest communication about how their young person is getting on
Why you will love working here
- Salary of £26,228 to £27,593 per year, with enhanced pay scales based on your experience and qualifications
- Fully funded training and qualifications for all colleagues, so you'll keep growing and developing throughout your career
- NEST enhanced pension scheme, enhanced maternity and paternity pay, and life assurance so you're looked after
- Staff referral scheme: refer a friend and you'll both benefit from a £500 referral bonus to split between you
- Access to an employee benefits scheme including a wellbeing app and a range of discounts, plus a blue light discount card
Is this you?
- You've got at least two years' solid experience working in a SEND environment or similar provision, and you know what it takes to support young people with complex and challenging needs
- You're genuinely committed and passionate about SEND; you see the young person first, not the label
- A Level 3 TA qualification is advantageous, but what matters most is your ability to build trust and manage behaviour with warmth and consistency
- You can work full time, 37.5 hours per week, and you're ready to be part of a team that values reflective practice and continuous learning
Applications close on 12 October 2026. Great roles like this are filled quickly, so the sooner you apply the better.
Safeguarding: We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.