EYFS & SEND Specialist - Long-Term Role with Competitive Pay

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

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