SEN Teaching Assistant

Supply Desk; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A vibrant special school in Hemel Hempstead is seeking a compassionate Special Needs Teaching Assistant to support students with Severe Learning Disabilities starting September 2025. This full-time role offers a meaningful chance to positively impact the lives of children with complex needs, providing tailored support and fostering their independence in a school known for its inclusive environment.

Benefits

Competitive pay rates

Pension contribution scheme

Ongoing professional development and training

Dedicated consultant support

Qualifications

• Experience in supporting students with special educational needs preferred.
• Ability to adapt teaching strategies for individual learning styles.
• Willingness to undertake additional training in areas such as autism awareness and first aid.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one support for students with SLD.
• Assist in implementing Individual Learning Plans and Education, Health, and Care Plans.
• Create a safe and nurturing classroom environment.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Communication

Classroom Management

Flexibility

Education

Experience working with SLD

Clear DBS check

Job description

Special Needs (SLD) Teaching Assistant | Special School in Hemel Hempstead | September Start
Competitive Pay

Supply Desk is currently looking for a compassionate and dedicated Special Needs Teaching Assistant (SLD) to join a vibrant special school in Hemel Hempstead. The role is available for a September 2025 start, supporting students with Severe Learning Disabilities (SLD). This is a full-time position, offering a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs.

The school is known for its supportive and inclusive learning environment, providing students with the tools and resources they need to thrive. The ideal candidate will be passionate about supporting children with complex learning needs and will have the drive to contribute to the school's mission of offering every child the opportunity to succeed.

Job Description:

• Provide one-to-one and group support for students with SLD, helping them access the curriculum and develop key life skills.
• Assist in the implementation of Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs), tailoring support to meet each student's unique needs.
• Work closely with the class teacher and SENCO to adapt lessons and activities, ensuring they are accessible for students with special educational needs.
• Support social, emotional, and behavioural development of students, using a variety of positive reinforcement techniques and managing challenging behaviours.
• Create a safe, nurturing environment where students feel supported, valued, and encouraged to engage in their learning.
• Assist with sensory support, using appropriate resources and strategies to help students stay focused and comfortable in the classroom.
• Help students develop independence, both academically and socially, encouraging participation in all school activities.
• Liaise with parents and carers, providing regular updates on student progress and discussing effective strategies for ongoing support at home.
• Be an active member of the team, contributing to meetings, training, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Our ideal candidate will:

• Have experience working with students with SLD and other special educational needs (experience preferred but not essential).
• Be empathetic, patient, and committed to providing high-quality support to children with additional needs.
• Have a strong understanding of special educational needs and how to adapt teaching strategies to suit individual learning styles.
• Be able to maintain effective classroom management, promoting positive behaviours and managing challenging situations with calmness and professionalism.
• Have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and be comfortable working with a variety of stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and external agencies.
• Be proactive, flexible, and adaptable in response to the changing needs of the students and the school.
• Hold or be willing to obtain a clear DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service).
• Have or be willing to undertake additional training in relevant areas such as autism awareness, safeguarding, and first aid.

If you are passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and are ready to make a meaningful difference, we would love to hear from you!

Supply Desk works closely with Hertfordshire Local Authority and offers a range of opportunities within the area. We provide:

• Competitive pay rates
• Pension contribution scheme
• Ongoing professional development and training
• A dedicated consultant to support you throughout your placement

To apply, please forward your CV to [e-mail] or call 01923 295 300 / 07423 653 247 for more information.
Due to high volumes of responses, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.