SEN Teaching Assistant

We are seeking compassionate, patient and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistants to join a specialist SEND academy in Bradford. The academy supports pupils across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5 (Sixth Form), providing a structured, literacy-rich and highly personalised curriculum tailored to individual learning needs.

The school breaks learning down into small, achievable steps, helping pupils develop their communication, independence and life skills. Daily phonics, oral communication and sign-supported English are embedded into the curriculum to support pupils at different stages of communication development.

About the Pupils

The academy supports pupils with a range of complex additional needs, including:

• Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD): Pupils requiring a highly adapted curriculum and structured support to develop their learning, cognition and independence.
• Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD): Pupils with complex learning needs, physical disabilities, sensory needs and potentially additional medical requirements.
• Autism: Pupils who benefit from structured routines, tailored communication approaches, sensory support and consistent behaviour strategies.

The Role and Responsibilities

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and other professionals to provide tailored support, ensuring every pupil can access learning and reach their individual potential.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting pupils with complex learning and communication needs.
• Using or developing skills in Makaton, Sign-Supported English (SSE), visual timetables and PECS.
• Recognising non-verbal communication, body language and individual behavioural cues.
• Supporting pupils with sensory regulation, emotional wellbeing and positive behaviour.
• Assisting with personal care, feeding and hygiene where required.
• Supporting moving and handling procedures, including the use of hoists and specialist equipment, following appropriate training.
• Helping pupils participate in specialist activities, including hydrotherapy and rebound therapy, where required.
• Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals to deliver individualised support.

What Makes an Excellent SEN Teaching Assistant?

We are looking for individuals who are patient, empathetic, proactive and committed to making a genuine difference to the lives of young people with additional needs.

You will be able to remain calm under pressure, build trusting relationships and adapt your approach to suit each pupil. Understanding that communication goes beyond spoken language is essential, as is the ability to recognise individual sensory triggers and respond positively to distressed or challenging behaviour.

Experience with Makaton, PECS, moving and handling, personal care or positive behaviour support, such as Team Teach, would be advantageous. However, a willingness to learn, undertake relevant training and develop specialist skills is equally important.

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a specialist educational setting where you can make a meaningful impact, develop your SEND expertise and help pupils build confidence, communication skills and greater independence.

If you are passionate about supporting young people with complex needs and want to make a real difference every day, we would love to hear from you.