SEN Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant - Earn up to £25,553 FTE (36 hours over 52 weeks)Plus a £1,000 Retention BonusAre you passionate about making a real difference in young people's lives? We are looking for compassionate, dedicated Teaching Assistants to join the education team at a specialist school and college. This is a unique role, distinct from mainstream TA positions, offering you the chance to support students aged 5-19 with severe social communication difficulties, complex learning disabilities, and sometimes challenging behaviours.As a Teaching Assistant, you'll help students access therapy-based education and develop life skills, empowering them to achieve the highest level of independence possible. Students are grouped by ability and social needs rather than age, and class sizes range from 4 to 10. The curriculum includes both core academic subjects and practical life skills like cookery and gardening. You'll also be supporting non-verbal students using alternative communication methods, such as Makaton and symbols.What's On Offer:A two-year nationally accredited Teaching Assistant qualification (funded by us).£1,000 Retention Bonus (£250 after 1 month, £250 after 1 year, £500 after 18 months).Life assurance and medical cash plan (following a qualifying period).Regular Team Teach positive behaviour support training.Clear career progression opportunities and ongoing professional development.Free hot lunch during term time.Ample free on-site parking.Employee assistance service providing confidential support 24/7.Access to a dedicated mental health first aid team and occupational health support.A supportive and friendly work environment within a beautiful, semi-rural setting.Working Hours:36 hours per week during school terms:Monday: 8.30am - 4.00pmTuesday to Thursday: 8.30am - 4.15pmFriday: 8.30am - 3.45pmSome flexibility is available for part-time positions, ideally working at least 3 days per week.About You:No prior experience is needed - empathy, compassion, and resilience are key.You'll need basic literacy and numeracy skills to help students and complete records.Common sense and patience are vital, as you'll be adapting to individual needs and supporting students through emotional and behavioural challenges.Effective communication with students, families, and professionals is essential.Salary Information:Starting salary: £18,469 - £19,206 pro rata for 39 weeks, term time (CPD days included).Rising to £19,954 - £21,917 pro rata for Senior Teaching Assistant roles, with further opportunities to apply for Higher Level Teaching Assistant positions.How to Apply:If you're passionate about enhancing the education and well-being of children with complex needs, we invite you to apply and become part of this dedicated team. Apply NOW or call Paul Hirchfield on 01293 527416 for more information.Interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis for suitable candidates.We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. An enhanced DBS check and references will be required. We are an equal opportunities employer.experienceTeachingskillsteaching assistant experienceeducationcollege