SEN - Sen Teaching Assistant

Reed; Colchester; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Reed is seeking a SEN Teaching Assistant for a highly specialist SEND school in Witham, Essex. The role supports pupils aged 4-19 with autism and complex needs, delivering 1:1 and small group assistance within a structured, nurturing setting.

You will work closely with teachers and therapists to implement highly personalised learning activities and promote independent life skills, communication and behaviour strategies.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting individuals with learning disabilities and SEND.
• Patient, resilient and nurturing attitude.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Supporting pupils with autism, learning disabilities and communication needs
• Assisting the class teacher in delivering highly personalised learning activities
• Encouraging the development of social, emotional and independence skills
• Promoting positive behaviour and engagement through structured approaches
• Supporting sensory needs and adapting activities where required
• Working collaboratively with therapists, teachers and support staff
• Helping maintain a safe, calm and engaging learning environment

Skills

Experience supporting individuals with

Patient, resilient and nurturing

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEND School (Witham)

Location: Witham, Essex
Hours: 32.5 hours per week (term-time only)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: ASAP

About the Provision

We are working in partnership with a highly specialist free school in the Witham area that offers a unique and forward-thinking approach to SEND education.

The school caters for pupils aged 4-19 with autism and complex learning needs, many of whom have EHCPs and require a high level of structured, individualised support.

This setting moves away from traditional teaching models, instead delivering tailored learning programmes designed around each pupil's strengths, interests and developmental stage. A key focus is placed on communication, independence and functional life skills, ensuring every learner is equipped for life beyond the classroom.

The school prides itself on creating a positive, respectful and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe, valued and able to thrive. Staff work closely within a multi-disciplinary team to provide consistent, high-quality support.

The Opportunity

As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you will be an integral part of the classroom team, providing dedicated support to pupils with autism and complex needs on both a 1:1 basis and in small groups.

This is a hands‑on, rewarding role where no two days are the same.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supporting pupils with autism, learning disabilities and communication needs
• Assisting the class teacher in delivering highly personalised learning activities
• Encouraging the development of social, emotional and independence skills
• Promoting positive behaviour and engagement through structured approaches
• Supporting sensory needs and adapting activities where required
• Working collaboratively with therapists, teachers and support staff
• Helping maintain a safe, calm and engaging learning environment

What We're Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals with experience in education, care or support work who are passionate about making a difference.

Essential:

• Experience supporting individuals with learning disabilities and/or SEND
• A patient, resilient and nurturing attitude
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

Desirable (but not essential):

• Experience working with autism or complex needs
• Knowledge of behaviour support strategies
• An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service

What's in It for You?

• A chance to work in a progressive and highly specialist SEND setting
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
• A supportive and collaborative team culture
• A deeply rewarding role where you can see the impact of your work every day
• Opportunities to develop your career within SEND education