SEN Teaching Assistant at Sixpenny Handley First School and Nursery

Dorset Council UK; Sixpenny Handley; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

A local educational authority is looking for an energetic SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils in Early Years, providing one-on-one assistance in both classroom and individual settings. The role requires a Level 3 childcare qualification and a passion for helping children with additional needs. Working hours will increase over time, with the position being term-time only until August 2026, and opportunities for training provided.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children requiring additional academic support.
• Ability to provide emotional and communication assistance.
• Willingness to participate in school life.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one support for a pupil with additional needs.
• Assist in classroom and individual workspace settings.
• Support the Early Years lead and SENDCo with educational tasks.

Skills

Experience working with younger children

Understanding of ASD

Strong communication skills

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification

Job description

The Heath Academy Trust and Sixpenny Handley First School and Nursery are excited to be looking to appoint an energetic, enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistant, working predominantly to support the provision in Early Years.

Under the direction of the Early Years lead and SENDCo, you will be providing one to one support for a pupil with additional needs, working both in the classroom environment and within an individualised workspace.

This role is on a term-time only basis, Monday to Friday. You will initially be required for 15 hours per week, with the hours increasing to 20 hours per week in January 2026 and increasing further to 30 hours per week in April 2026. This is a fixed term contract until 31 August 2026; possibly with the option to extend.

The successful applicant will ideally have a level 3 childcare qualification and will have experience of working with younger children and those who need additional academic, emotional and communication support. Training support will be provided for the right candidate to build knowledge of ASD and communication techniques. We will consider all applicants with appropriate skills, passion and commitment for this important role.

The successful applicant should want to play a full part in the life of the school as part of a friendly and dedicated team, who are committed to high standards.