Experienced Teaching Assistant, ALN Base

Job Title: Experienced Teaching Assistant – Additional Learning Needs (ALN) Base
Location: Cardiff
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Fixed Term (2 Years) – September 2026 to July 2028
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:15am – 3:15pm
Pay: £93 daily rate (negotiable)

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and compassionate Teaching Assistant to join a well-established secondary school in Cardiff, working within a dedicated Additional Learning Needs (ALN) base. This specialist provision supports pupils with complex learning needs including Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Speech, Language and Communication Difficulties (SLCD).

The base offers a nurturing, structured environment with enhanced facilities, a bespoke curriculum tailored to individual needs, and a high staff-to-student ratio of approximately 1:10. This allows staff to provide meaningful, personalised support that enables pupils to thrive both academically and socially.

This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting young people with additional needs and who enjoys working as part of a skilled and supportive multidisciplinary team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide classroom support for pupils with complex Additional Learning Needs within the specialist base
• Assist with the delivery of a bespoke, differentiated curriculum designed to meet individual learning profiles
• Support pupils with reading, spelling, numeracy and organisational skills
• Work alongside teachers and specialist staff to implement individual support strategies and interventions
• Support pupils with speech, language and communication development in collaboration with Speech and Language Therapy guidance
• Encourage independence, confidence and positive social interaction
• Assist with maintaining a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

• Previous experience working as a Teaching Assistant, preferably within an ALN, SEN or specialist provision
• Experience supporting pupils with complex needs such as Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, or speech and language difficulties
• A patient, empathetic and proactive approach to supporting young people
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• The ability to adapt learning support strategies to suit individual pupils
• A commitment to inclusive education and pupil wellbeing

What the School Offers

• A welcoming and highly supportive secondary school environment
• A well-resourced specialist ALN base with enhanced facilities
• Small group learning and a high staff-to-student ratio (approximately 1:10)
• The opportunity to work closely with experienced educators and specialist professionals
• A rewarding role supporting pupils to achieve their full potential

This is a two-year placement from September 2026 to July 2028, ideal for experienced Teaching Assistants who are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of pupils with additional learning needs.

If you are dedicated, caring and experienced in supporting young people with complex needs, we would love to hear from you.

** Teaching Personnel can offer work in other schools April - July 2026 if you'd like to register with us immediately ** 

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.
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