SEN Teaching Assistant – Special Needs School

Location: Stoke-on-Trent
Start Date: ASAP
Contract: Full-time, until December 2026
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

About the Role

We are seeking a compassionate, proactive, and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist educational setting in Stoke-on-Trent. This is a full-time role starting as soon as possible and continuing until December.

You will be supporting children and young people with a range of Special Educational Needs, including Autism (ASC), ADHD, learning difficulties, communication needs, and social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH). The role involves both 1:1 and small‑group support, helping pupils achieve their individual learning goals in a nurturing, structured environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide tailored support to pupils with a range of SEN, ensuring individual needs are met.
• Work closely with teachers, therapists, and other support staff to deliver personalised learning plans.
• Assist with classroom activities, sensory programmes, and behaviour support strategies.
• Promote independence, confidence, and positive engagement in learning.
• Build strong, supportive relationships with pupils, encouraging emotional regulation and social development.
• Help maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment in line with safeguarding and school policies.
• Support with personal care where necessary (training provided if required).

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEN (school or care setting).
• A patient, empathetic, and resilient approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow support plans and adapt to changing needs.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting pupil welfare.

Desirable

• Experience supporting pupils with ASC, SEMH, or complex learning needs.
• Training in Team Teach, PBM, Makaton, PECS or similar approaches.
• Relevant Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or SEN qualification.

Safeguarding Statement

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and appropriate referencing.