Complex Needs Teaching Assistant

Location: Hayes, Greater London, England

Job Type: Contract, Full-Time

Industry: Education and Training

Salary: £95 - £120 Per day

Job Description

The Complex Needs Teaching Assistant supports the educational and developmental needs of pupils who present with a range of complex learning difficulties and disabilities. The role involves working closely with teaching staff to deliver tailored support, enabling pupils to access the curriculum and participate fully in school life. This position requires patience, dedication, and a thorough understanding of individual pupil needs to promote their independence, social skills, and academic progress.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to pupils with complex needs, including those with physical disabilities, communication challenges, and behavioural difficulties.
• Assist in the implementation of individual education plans and personalised learning programmes under the guidance of teaching staff and specialists.
• Support pupils during lessons to facilitate engagement and understanding, adapting resources and approaches as necessary.
• Promote positive behaviour and social interaction, using appropriate strategies to manage and de-escalate challenging behaviour.
• Encourage and develop pupils’ independence in personal care, mobility, and learning activities.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to ensure consistency of care and education.
• Maintain accurate records of pupil progress and report observations to the teaching team.
• Support pupils during breaks and extracurricular activities to ensure their safety and inclusion.
• Follow safeguarding procedures and contribute to a safe, supportive learning environment.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities related to complex needs education.

Required Qualifications

• Recognised qualification relevant to education support, such as Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning or equivalent.
• Basic first aid knowledge or willingness to undertake first aid training.

Education

• Minimum of GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
• Further qualifications in special educational needs support are advantageous.

Experience

• Previous experience working with children or young people with complex needs in an educational setting.
• Experience of supporting pupils with a range of disabilities and learning difficulties.
• Familiarity with individual education plans and behaviour management techniques.

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of various disabilities and their impact on learning and behaviour.
• Ability to adapt communication methods to suit individual pupil needs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Patience, empathy, and resilience when supporting pupils with challenging behaviour.
• Organisational skills to manage multiple tasks and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools or equivalent.
• Training in Autism Spectrum Disorders, sensory impairments, or other relevant specialisms.
• Experience of using assistive technology or communication aids.

Working Conditions

• The role is based in a school setting within Greater London and requires full-time hours on a contract basis.
• The post involves working closely with pupils who may have physical, emotional, or behavioural difficulties, which can be demanding.
• Some manual handling, personal care, and use of specialised equipment may be required.
• Attendance at meetings and training sessions is expected as part of continuing professional development.
• Compliance with safeguarding policies and procedures is mandatory.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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