Complex Needs Teaching Assistant

Empowering Learning Ltd; North East; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Empowering Learning Ltd in Darlington is recruiting Complex Needs Teaching Assistants to support pupils with diverse SEND needs. You will work closely with teachers to implement tailored strategies and help students access education.

Some pupils may require personal care; experience with Makaton or PECS is a plus. The role is demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to make a real difference every day.

Qualifications

• Enhanced DBS on Update Service or willing to apply for a new Enhanced DBS check.
• Two professional references required.
• Full-time availability, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3:30 pm.
• Registration completed within 48 hours of applying.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with a range of SEN under guidance from teaching staff.
• Assist with personal care where required.
• Support communication using Makaton/PECS where appropriate.
• Build positive relationships and monitor pupil progress.

Skills

Compassionate

Reliable

Punctual

Resilient

Team player

Personal care support

Tools

Makaton

PECS

Job description

Complex Needs Teaching Assistant

Empowering Learning Immediate Starts Available Darlington

Make a difference. Change lives. Empower learning.

Empowering Learning is working with a range of specialist SEN schools to recruit compassionate, reliable and resilient Complex Needs Teaching Assistants who are passionate about supporting children with additional needs.

This is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children who require additional support to access their education, develop essential life skills and reach their full potential.

The Role

As a Complex Needs Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teaching staff to provide tailored support to pupils with a range of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Some children may require personal care, while others may be non-verbal and need alternative methods of communication. Experience using Makaton, PECS or other communication systems would be a significant advantage.

The role can be challenging, both physically and emotionally, but it offers the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with pupils and celebrate their progress, no matter how big or small.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Compassionate and patient, with a genuine passion for supporting children with complex needs.
• Reliable and punctual, understanding the importance of consistency and routine for pupils.
• Resilient and adaptable, able to remain calm and positive in challenging situations.
• Willing to support pupils with personal care where required.
• Experienced in SEN, SEND or complex needs settings (highly desirable).
• Familiar with Makaton, PECS or alternative communication methods (an advantage).
• Committed to working collaboratively with teachers and other support staff.

Above all, we are looking for people with the right attitude, a caring nature and a genuine desire to make a difference.

Essential Requirements

To be considered for these opportunities, you must:

• Hold an Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or be willing to apply and pay for a new Enhanced DBS check.
• Be able to provide two years of professional references to support your employment history.
• Be available to work full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm.
• Be able to complete the registration process within 48 hours of applying, as these positions are available for immediate starts.

Consistency is key for the children we support, so full availability during these hours is essential.

What Empowering Learning Offers

• The opportunity to work in a variety of specialist SEN schools.
• A rewarding role where you can make a genuine difference every day.
• The chance to develop your experience and skills within special educational needs.
• Support from a dedicated recruitment team.
• Immediate-start opportunities for candidates who are ready to complete registration promptly.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Help us empower every child to learn, grow and thrive.