Primary School Teaching Assistant SEND

TimePlan Education; City Of London; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

TimePlan Education in London is seeking an experienced SEND Teaching Assistant to support children with additional needs in school settings. You will provide 1:1 and small-group support, helping pupils access learning, build confidence and develop communication and social skills.

The role involves working closely with teachers and the SENCO, implementing EHCP targets, and using tools like Makaton or PECS where appropriate.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEND in a school or similar setting.
• Ability to use communication strategies such as Makaton or PECS.
• Calm, patient and consistent approach to support behaviour.
• Strong teamwork and communication with staff.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEND.
• Support pupils with Autism, ADHD, speech and language needs and related difficulties.
• Use SEND strategies and tools to aid learning and development.
• Support interventions such as literacy, numeracy and phonics programs.
• Promote positive behaviour through routines and personalised strategies.
• Collaborate with teachers, SENCOs and therapists; monitor progress.

Skills

SEND experience

Communication & teamwork

Calm & patient

Adaptable & resilient

Safeguarding commitment

Education

NVQ / BTEC in relevant field

Tools

Makaton

PECS

Now and Next boards

Visual timetables

Social stories

Job description

Are you an experienced and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant with a passion for helping children with additional needs reach their full potential? TimePlan Education is currently recruiting for compassionate, patient and proactive SEND Teaching Assistants to join supportive educational settings in London.

This is an excellent opportunity for any experienced SEN Teaching Assistant, SEND TA, Learning Support Assistant or Teaching Assistant who are passionate about inclusive education and supporting pupils to overcome barriers to learning.

You will provide tailored one-to-one and small-group support to pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, helping them access learning, develop communication and social skills, build confidence and become increasingly independent.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEND.
• Support pupils with a range of needs, which may include Autism, ADHD, speech and language needs, and social, emotional and communication difficulties.
• Use appropriate SEND strategies and communication tools to support pupils' learning and development such as Makaton, PECS, Now and Next boards, visual timetables and social stories, where appropriate.
• Support structured interventions including sensory regulation activities, phonics, literacy and numeracy.
• Promote positive behaviour through consistent routines, positive reinforcement and personalised support strategies.
• Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO, therapists and other professionals.
• Support the implementation of individual support plans and EHCP targets.
• Promote communication, social interaction, emotional regulation and independence.
• Support pupils during transitions, breaktimes and lunchtimes where required.
• Monitor progress and share observations with relevant members of staff.
• Help create a safe, inclusive and nurturing learning environment.

About You

The ideal candidate will have previous experience supporting children or young people with SEND in a school or similar setting.

• Have experience as a SEND/SEN Teaching Assistant or Learning Support Assistant.
• Understand the diverse needs of children with SEND.
• Be confident using, or willing to learn, communication strategies such as Makaton and PECS.
• Have a calm, patient and consistent approach to supporting behaviour.
• Be adaptable and resilient when responding to individual pupil needs.
• Have excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Be passionate about helping children develop confidence and independence.

Previous SEND experience is desirable but not essential for candidates with strong transferable experience and the right attitude.

A relevant qualification such as NVQ, BTEC or equivalent would be advantageous.

The Opportunity

There are many opportunities to support pupils across different age groups, including EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, depending on your experience and preferences.

TimePlan Education provides ongoing support and professional development opportunities, helping education professionals develop their SEND experience and career.

Requirements

• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply.
• Right to work in the UK.
• Two professional references covering at least the last two years.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
• Completion of the TimePlan Education application process and interview.

TimePlan Education are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of children and young people and expect all staff to show this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to complete Disclosure and Barring Service declarations in line with Section 115 of the Police Act 1997. You will also be required to provide professional references covering at least the last 5 years, and complete our online application followed by a video or face to face interview.