Early Years & Specialist SEND Specialist

AMA Admin; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

Milk Education in Gateshead is seeking an experienced EYFS Teaching Assistant or SEND Specialist to join schools from October 2026. The role focuses on 1:1 and small-group support for early years learners with additional needs, including autism and sensory challenges, with emphasis on communication, play-based learning and smooth transitions.

You will work alongside teachers and SENCOs to implement EHCP targets, using visuals and alternative communication approaches where appropriate, and to

Qualifications

• Recent hands-on experience supporting children in EYFS or Early Years, ideally with additional needs.

Responsibilities

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support for EYFS children with additional needs.
• Supporting early communication, language development, social interaction and play-based learning.
• Working with children with autism, ADHD, sensory needs, developmental delays and complex learning needs.
• Using play-based activities to encourage curiosity, independence, confidence and early development.
• Supporting communication through visuals, communication boards, PECS or other alternative communication approaches where appropriate.
• Helping children with emotional regulation, sensory processing and transitions throughout the school day.
• Supporting personal care and daily routines where required.
• Working closely with teachers, EYFS staff, SENCOs and wider support teams to follow individual support plans and EHCP targets where appropriate.
• Creating a calm, safe and inclusive environment where young children can learn, develop and thrive.

Education

Early years qualification (e.g., CACHE level 3/4)

Tools

PECS

Visual supports

Job description

Early Years & Specialist SEND Specialist | Gateshead| October 2026 Start

Are you an experienced EYFS Teaching Assistant, Early Years Practitioner or SEND Learning Support Assistant looking for your next rewarding opportunity?

Milk Education is working with welcoming mainstream primary schools and specialist SEND provisions across Washington, and we're looking for passionate support staff with experience in Early Years and supporting children with additional needs to join their teams on a long-term basis from October 2026.

We're looking for someone who understands how important the early years are in a child's development, particularly for children who need additional support with communication, social interaction, sensory needs or early learning.

If you have experience supporting young children with SEND and know how to create a nurturing, engaging environment where every child feels safe and supported, we'd love to hear from you!

What will you be doing as anEarly Years & Specialist SEND Specialist?

• Providing tailored 1:1 and small-group support for EYFS children with additional needs.

• Supporting early communication, language development, social interaction and play-based learning.

• Working with children with autism, ADHD, sensory needs, developmental delays and complex learning needs.

• Using play-based activities to encourage curiosity, independence, confidence and early development.

• Supporting communication through visuals, communication boards, PECS or other alternative communication approaches where appropriate.

• Helping children with emotional regulation, sensory processing and transitions throughout the school day.

• Supporting personal care and daily routines where required.

• Working closely with teachers, EYFS staff, SENCOs and wider support teams to follow individual support plans and EHCP targets where appropriate.

• Creating a calm, safe and inclusive environment where young children can learn, develop and thrive.

What we're looking for in aEarly Years & Specialist SEND Specialist

• Recent, hands-on experience supporting children in EYFS or Early Years, ideally with additional needs.

• Experience in a nursery, Reception class, mainstream primary school, specialist SEND school or similar setting.

• An understanding of early childhood development, play-based learning and early communication.

• Experience supporting children with autism, communication difficulties, sensory needs or developmental delays.

• A patient, nurturing and adaptable approach, with the confidence to respond to individual needs.

• Someone who can build positive relationships with children while encouraging independence and engagement.

• A genuine passion for helping young children overcome barriers to learning and reach their potential.

Relevant experience is key. Whether you've worked as an EYFS Teaching Assistant, Nursery Practitioner, Early Years Educator, SEND Support Assistant or in a similar childcare or support role, your experience could be a great fit.

Why work with Milk Education for anEarly Years & Specialist SEND Specialist?

We know how important early years and SEND support staff are, and we want you to feel supported in return.

• Long-term opportunities across Washington, with potential temp-to-perm routes.

• Competitive daily pay, based on your experience, qualifications and the requireme