Full job descriptionFull Time SEND Specialist Teaching Assistant (Complex Needs)Long-Term & Flexible Cover Opportunity | Immediate & September Starts | £95–£100 PAYE per day
Are you an experienced SEND Teaching Assistant or with a background working with vulnerable adults or young children in care settings?
We are working in partnership with a highly regarded specialist SEND school in the Lewisham area, supporting children and young people from Primary through to Secondary age with Autism, Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), and complex communication needs. The school is recognised for its specialist autism provision, collaborative approach, and integrated work alongside therapists and support professionals to provide personalised learning for every pupil.
This is a full-time, long-term opportunity throughout the academic year, with interviews taking place immediately. We are also looking for those who may also commit to part time availability. Whilst the school is primarily looking for candidates able to commit Monday to Friday, they would also welcome applications from experienced SEND Teaching Assistants who are available for emergency cover.
The RoleAs a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will become an integral member of a specialist classroom team, supporting pupils whose needs require patience, consistency and a nurturing approach.
You will be supporting children and young people with:
*Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
*Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
*Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD)
*Complex communication needs, including non-verbal pupils
*Sensory processing differences
*Physical disabilities and medical needs where appropriate
Daily responsibilities may include:
*Delivering 1:1 and small group support throughout the school day
*Supporting pupils to access personalised learning activities
*Assisting with communication using visual supports, AAC strategies, symbols or Makaton where appropriate
*Supporting sensory-based learning and emotional regulation
*Providing personal care with dignity and respect where required
*Encouraging independence, social interaction and life skills
*Working collaboratively with teachers, Speech & Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists and other professionals to ensure the best outcomes for pupils.
Who We’re Looking ForWe are keen to hear from experienced SEND Teaching Assistants who have:
*Previous experience working within SEND or specialist education
*Experience supporting pupils with Autism, SLD, PMLD or complex needs
*A calm, resilient and positive attitude
*Confidence supporting pupils who may require personal care
*A genuine passion for helping children achieve their full potential
Experience may have been gained within:
*Specialist SEND schools
*Mainstream schools with SEND provisions
*Care settings
*Residential services
*Children’s support services
*Healthcare environments
Working Hours*Monday to Friday
*Typical school hours: 8:30am – 3:30pm
*Long-term placement throughout the academic year
*Immediate starts available, with September starts also being arranged
Recruitment ProcessThe recruitment process has been designed to ensure candidates are fully prepared before starting:
*Initial interview with Branden at Tara Education Consultant
*Full compliance and vetting completed by Tara Professional
*Enhanced Child & Adult DBS processed where required
*Employment references and safeguarding documentation completed
*Trial day ideally before the Summer Holidays, or during the first weeks of September
Pay & Benefits*£95–£100 per day (PAYE)
*Highly competitive daily rates
*Full-time, long-term opportunity
*Potential to secure ongoing work throughout the academic year
*Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement
*Opportunity to work within an exceptionally supportive specialist SEND environment that invests heavily in staff development and collaborative practice.
If you’re looking to build a long-term career within specialist SEND education and want to join a school where consistency, teamwork and pupil-centred practice are genuinely valued, we’d love to hear from you as soon as possible - thank you!