Special Needs Support

We are seeking caring, dependable, and motivated individuals to work as Special Needs Teaching Assistants in specialist schools within Portsmouth. You do not need to have formal qualifications — full training and ongoing support are provided.

About the Role
As a Learning Support Assistant, you will support pupils with learning and physical needs throughout the school day. Responsibilities may include:

• Supporting learning activities in small groups or on a 1:1 basis

• Encouraging positive behaviour and emotional regulation

• Assisting with communication and social development

• Helping with personal care or daily routines where required

• Working closely with teachers, therapists, and support staff to meet individual education plans

You will play a key role in helping pupils feel safe, supported, and able to achieve their potential.

Types of Settings

• SEN Schools – Supporting children with autism (ASC), moderate to severe learning difficulties, physical disabilities, speech and language needs, or complex medical needs. These settings often focus on structured learning, communication development, and life skills.

• SEMH Schools – Supporting children with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Pupils may experience anxiety, trauma, or behavioural challenges and benefit from consistent adult support, clear boundaries, and relationship-based approaches.

We take care to match you with a setting that suits your strengths, interests, and level of experience.

Who Can Apply?
We welcome applicants with a patient, supportive, and resilient approach. This role would suit applicants with experience in care, childcare, youth work, support work, healthcare, or similar fields. This role is ideal for those wanting a career change, those returning to work, or individuals considering careers in teaching, psychology, or support services.

Role Details:

• Flexible full-time or part-time hours

• Term-time only

• From £13.75 per hour

• Enhanced Child DBS Certificate (or a willingness to obtain)

If you are interested in this role, please do apply! We look forward to hearing from you.

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.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.