Specialist Teaching Assistant

We are seeking a resilient and compassionate Specialist Teaching Assistant to support students aged 11–16 within a specialist alternative provision setting.

This is a full-time position with an immediate start, working 8.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
This role is well suited to candidates with secondary experience who are passionate about supporting young people with additional needs.

You will be working within a highly regarded specialist provision that is known for its nurturing, trauma-informed approach. The setting places a strong emphasis on re-engaging learners who may have struggled in mainstream education, offering a calm, structured environment where positive relationships and consistency are key. Staff work closely together to provide tailored support that helps pupils rebuild confidence and succeed both academically and emotionally.

Students present with a range of needs, including Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and challenges associated with alternative provision. Many learners require support with emotional regulation, behaviour management, confidence building and re-engagement with education. Additional needs may include ADHD, anxiety and communication difficulties.

Key Responsibilities

You will provide specialist classroom and pastoral support, help students access learning, support emotional regulation and positive behaviour, and build strong, trusting relationships.

You will work closely with teaching and pastoral staff to deliver consistent, meaningful support throughout the school day.

Requirements

Applicants must have a minimum of 6 months childcare experience, particularly supporting children with SEN needs.

Experience within SEMH or alternative provision settings is highly desirable. Due to the location, a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential.

A calm, patient and resilient approach is key.

Why Work with Teaching Personnel?

Teaching Personnel offers competitive weekly pay, a dedicated consultant who understands specialist education, access to free CPD and SEN-focused training, opportunities for long-term and permanent roles, and the support of a trusted UK-leading education recruitment agency.

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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