Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Five Towns District – Wakefield

Monday – Friday, Term time only

£92-£95 per day

About the School

This well-established specialist provision supports pupils with a wide range of special needs such as Autism, Speech, Language and Communication difficulties, learning difficulties, and SEMH. The staff team is experienced, welcoming, and committed to delivering personalised support that enables pupils to succeed both academically and socially. The provision supports both primary and secondary aged children.

The Role

As a Special Needs Needs Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers, therapists, and other support staff to provide tailored support to pupils across different phases of the school. You will play a vital role in helping students access learning, develop independence, and regulate their emotions and behaviours in a positive and supportive environment.

This role requires a flexible and responsive approach, as you may support pupils with a range of communication, sensory, and behavioural needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting pupils with Autism and complex communication needs
• Managing behaviours that may be challenging, unpredictable, or sensory-driven
• Creating a safe, structured, and nurturing learning environment
• Assisting with personal care where required
• Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and support staff
• Adapting support strategies to meet individual needs
• Encouraging engagement, confidence, and independence
• Promoting positive relationships and emotional wellbeing

What We’re Looking For

• Lived experience supporting individuals with Autism or complex learning needs
• Previous experience in support work, care, SEN, youth work, or related fields (working with children or adults)
• Confidence in managing challenging behaviour using a calm, consistent, and positive approach
• A patient, nurturing, and empathetic manner
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Reliability, emotional resilience, and a genuine passion for supporting young people
• Willingness to work with pupils across the 2–19 age range

What We Offer

• Full-time, Monday–Friday working pattern
• Long-term opportunity with potential for a permanent contract
• Supportive and experienced school leadership team
• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities

If you are passionate about championing every learner, adapting your approach to meet individual needs, and making a lasting impact within a specialist educational setting, we would love to hear from you.