SEND Teaching Assistant

New Directions Group; Bradford; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

New Directions Education is recruiting a pool of Teaching Assistants to support pupils with SEND and SEMH in mainstream Bradford schools. You will provide 1:1 support, work with teachers and SENCOs, and help pupils access the curriculum.

This role requires empathy, resilience, and a proactive approach to fostering inclusive learning and emotional wellbeing for students in a busy school environment.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND/SEMH needs.
• Understanding of trauma-informed practice and positive behaviour support strategies.
• Experience working 1:1 in a school, care, youth work, or similar setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patient, resilient, and nurturing approach to supporting learners.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support to pupils with SEND/SEMH within mainstream classes.
• Assist with implementing individual learning plans and EHCP targets.
• Support teachers in adapting activities to ensure curriculum access.
• Build positive, trusting relationships to promote confidence and wellbeing.
• Use de-escalation techniques and positive behaviour strategies as required.
• Deliver targeted interventions under supervision of staff/SENCOs.
• Monitor pupil progress and communicate feedback to staff.

Skills

SEND/SEMH support

Trauma-informed practice

1:1 support

Strong communication

Patient and nurturing

Job description

New Directions Education is currently recruiting for a pool of Teaching Assistants to work within mainstream primary and secondary schools across Bradford and the surrounding areas. We are seeking dedicated, passionate individuals to provide1:1 supportfor pupils withSpecial Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)andSocial, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)needs.

This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on the educational experience of young people who require additional support to achieve their full potential within a mainstream school environment.

We want to hear from you if you have:

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND and/or SEMH needs.
• A good understanding of trauma-informed practice and positive behaviour support strategies.
• Experience working on a 1:1 basis within a school, care, youth work, residential, or similar setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• A patient, resilient, and nurturing approach to supporting young people.
• A genuine passion for helping pupils overcome barriers to learning and succeed.

Job Specification

Working as a Teaching Assistant supporting pupils with SEND and SEMH needs can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires flexibility, empathy, and a proactive approach. You will work closely with class teachers, SENCOs, pastoral teams, and external professionals to provide tailored support that enables students to engage positively with their education and school community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support to pupils with SEND and SEMH needs within mainstream classroom settings.
• Support the implementation of individual learning plans, behaviour support plans, and EHCP targets where applicable.
• Work alongside teaching staff to adapt learning activities and ensure students can access the curriculum effectively.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils to promote confidence, engagement, and emotional wellbeing.
• Use de-escalation techniques and positive behaviour strategies to support students with additional social, emotional, and behavioural needs.
• Deliver targeted interventions and support activities under the direction of teaching staff and SENCOs.
• Monitor and record pupil progress, behaviour, and wellbeing, providing feedback to teachers and relevant staff.
• Promote inclusion and encourage pupils to develop independence, social skills, and positive learning behaviours.