SEND Teaching Assistant – Specialist School, Boston Spa, Wetherby
£92.56 - £95 SEND Full time
SEND Teaching Assistant – Specialist School, Boston Spa, Wetherby
We are recruiting a SEND Teaching Assistant to join a welcoming and supportive specialist school in Boston Spa, Wetherby. The school provides day and residential education for children and young people aged 3–19, supporting pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
You will work alongside experienced teachers and support staff to help pupils develop their communication skills, confidence and independence, while supporting their learning and personal development in a nurturing environment.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs and looking to build a rewarding career in specialist education.
About the School
The school provides a highly personalised learning environment, with small class sizes of up to eight pupils and a multidisciplinary team dedicated to meeting each student’s individual needs.
Pupils have a range of needs, including:
Hearing impairments and deafness.
Autism and associated sensory needs.
Speech, language and communication difficulties.
Physical and sensory needs.
Social, emotional and developmental needs.
The school takes a holistic approach to education, with specialist support from professionals including speech and language therapists, audiologists and nursing staff. Facilities include sensory learning spaces, dedicated wellbeing rooms, specialist equipment and outdoor sensory areas.
The Role and Responsibilities
As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will:
Support pupils with additional needs on a one-to-one basis and in small groups.
Assist teachers in delivering engaging, personalised lessons.
Support pupils with communication, literacy, social interaction and independence.
Use visual timetables, communication aids and other resources to help pupils understand routines and express their needs.
Develop an understanding of communication approaches such as British Sign Language (BSL), Sign-Supported English (SSE), Makaton and other strategies where appropriate.
Promote positive behaviour, emotional regulation and wellbeing through a patient and supportive approach.
Help pupils work towards individual targets outlined in their Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals to support pupils’ progress.
Encourage older pupils to develop practical life skills and prepare for greater independence.
Help create a safe, inclusive and positive learning environment where every pupil feels valued.
What Makes a Great SEND Teaching Assistant?
We are looking for someone who is compassionate, patient, adaptable and enthusiastic about helping young people overcome barriers to learning.
You should have a genuine interest in SEND and be willing to adapt your approach to meet the individual needs of pupils, including those with hearing impairments and speech, language and communication difficulties.
The ideal candidate will:
Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Be patient, observant and responsive to individual needs.
Understand the importance of visual communication and non-verbal cues.
Be willing to learn and use different communication strategies.
Recognise that behaviour can be a form of communication and respond calmly and positively.
Support pupils with sensory regulation, emotional development and confidence.
Work effectively as part of a wider team.
Demonstrate a commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and pupil wellbeing.
Be enthusiastic about helping pupils develop their skills and achieve their potential.
Previous experience working with children or young people with SEND would be beneficial but is not essential. A positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a genuine passion for supporting others are key.
Requirements
A genuine interest in supporting children and young people with SEND.
Experience working with children or young people would be advantageous but is not essential.
Strong communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills.
A patient, flexible and proactive approach.
A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
An enhanced DBS check, with support provided throughout the application process.
Training and Benefits
Opportunity to work in a specialist SEND school with experienced teaching and support staff.
Hands-on experience supporting pupils with a range of additional needs.
Opportunities to develop specialist communication and behaviour-support skills.
Ongoing support and professional development.
Opportunities for long-term career progression within SEND education.
£50 Amazon voucher for successful referrals, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
Apply Today
If you are passionate about helping children and young people with additional needs thrive, and would like to make a meaningful difference to their education, confidence and independence, we would love to hear from you.
Take the next step towards a rewarding career in SEND education and apply today!
