Teaching Assistant (Music, mechanics and animal care)

SEN Teaching Support Assistant-

Location- Penarth

Salary- £92.63/ day

Contract type- Full time

Start date- September 2026

About the Role

We are looking to appoint a dedicated SEN Teaching Support Assistant to join our specialist learning environment. Working closely with teaching staff, you will play a key role in fostering a positive, inclusive, and nurturing setting for pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALN).

The successful candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and committed to developing their practice. You will support learners with a diverse range of needs, including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges. The role involves providing support both within the classroom and across the wider school, helping pupils access learning, build independence, and feel safe, valued, and supported.

A calm, patient, and approachable manner is essential, alongside strong teamwork skills and a genuine passion for ensuring every child is understood, included, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Requirements

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) is not essential; however, experience within a specialist or therapeutic SEN setting would be advantageous.
• A particular interest in areas such as bike maintenance, music, radio broadcasting, or animal care is desirable.
• A positive, flexible, and proactive attitude, with the ability to remain calm and maintain a sense of humour in a dynamic environment.
• A genuine passion for supporting learners with diverse needs, including those who benefit from practical, hands-on learning such as workshops, music-based sessions, and vocational activities.
• A Child and Adult Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service (support can be provided if required).
• Registration with the Education Workforce Council (EWC), or willingness to obtain this prior to commencement.
• A full UK driving licence and access to your own transport.

About the School

Our specialist SEN provision supports approximately 80 pupils aged 7–19, all of whom have a range of Additional Learning Needs. Pupils benefit from highly individualised programmes, including 1:1 and small-group support, designed to help them feel safe, regulated, and ready to engage with learning.

The school adopts a trauma-informed, therapeutic approach, creating a calm and consistent environment where pupils can develop trust, independence, and confidence at their own pace. In addition to classroom teaching, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on practical and creative learning, with access to specialist workshops such as music, bike maintenance, radio broadcasting, and hands-on vocational activities.

Learning extends beyond traditional classroom experiences through personalised timetables and opportunities that support the development of life skills, communication, resilience, and preparation for future pathways.

Please upload a copy of your CV to apply,

Shortlisting will begin 3 days after application.

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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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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