Level 3 SEND Teaching Assistant

St Christopher's Multi Academy Tust; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A local educational institution in Plymouth is looking for a compassionate Level 3 SEND Teaching Assistant to join their specialist provision. The successful candidate will support pupils with Special Educational Needs, helping them in learning, communication, and social skills. This position requires expertise in emotional regulation and teamwork. You will be part of an environment that values both pupil and staff wellbeing, offering support and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Local Government Pension Scheme

High-quality professional development

Supportive and collaborative team

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with pupils with Special Educational Needs is essential.
• Experience in a specialist setting or with children with complex needs is ideal.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with their learning, communication, and social interaction.
• Create a calm, structured, and nurturing environment for all pupils.
• Work alongside the Provision Lead throughout the school day.

Skills

Experience with pupils with Special Educational Needs

Ability to build positive relationships

Understanding of emotional regulation

Teamwork and communication skills

Job description

Level 3 SEND Teaching Assistant

St Matthew’s Primary and Nursery Academy, Derriford

Contract Term: Permanent
Hours: 32.5 hours per week, Monday – Friday 8:30am – 3:30pm
Salary: Grade SC3 NJC points 6-9 Actual starting Salary £19,723 (FTE £25,989)
Term Time only: 39 weeks per annum
Annual Leave: Taken outside of term time and paid pro-rata throughout the year (no annual leave to be taken during term time)
Benefits: Local Government Pension Scheme
Deadline for application: 9am on Tuesday 6th January 2026
Start: ASAP
Interview Date: Thursday 8th January 2026

We are seeking a compassionate, skilled and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to join our specialist provision for a small group of pupils with EHCPs.

The successful candidate will work alongside the Provision Lead, supporting pupils throughout the school day with their learning, communication, social interaction and play skills. You will help to create a calm, structured and nurturing environment where all pupils are supported to experience success and make progress.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has previous experience working with pupils with Special Educational Needs
• Ideally has experience in a specialist setting or has worked with children with complex needs
• Is committed, patient and able to build positive relationships with pupils
• Understands the importance of emotional regulation, independence and consistent routines
• Works effectively as part of a team and communicates clearly with colleagues

We can offer:

• A warm, supportive and collaborative school team
• Regular support and guidance from our SENCO and Trust inclusion leads
• High-quality professional development and opportunities to extend your skills
• A nurturing setting where pupil wellbeing and staff wellbeing are valued

This role is suited to someone who is passionate about inclusion and committed to improving outcomes for children with additional needs. You will be an important part of a provision that makes a significant difference to the children and families we serve.

To arrange a tour of the school please contact the school on 01752 395969 or via email on [e-mail].

Please ensure you refer to the criteria for the role on the person specification in your supporting statement.

Please visit the below link for information on how to apply: https://www.stchristophersmat.org/work-with-us/current-vacancies

For any issues applying for this role please contact The People Team via [e-mail].

Applications need to be completed by 9am on Tuesday 6th January 2026. Interview date Thursday 8th January 2026.

Please note it is our process to apply for references for shortlisted applicants and to complete online searches in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, for all shortlisted applicants. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this post.

Please visit the below website for our Trust policies and our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy: https://www.stchristophersmat.org/key-information/item/10/trust-policies

Our commitment to EDI

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Applicants who meet the criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age or veteran status.