SEND Teaching Assistant

Ribbons & Reeves; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 21,000; Full time

Job summary

Chelmsford Secondary School is seeking a dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to support students with additional needs across KS3–KS4. The role offers development, mentoring and a pathway into teaching, SEN specialisms or pastoral roles.

You will work within a supportive team with clear routines and strong behaviour systems to nurture positive learning outcomes. Start date is September 2026, with a full‑time, long‑term to permanent contract, and a structured CPD program tailored to autism, ADHD

Qualifications

• Empathetic, patient and committed to supporting vulnerable learners.
• Strong communication skills and a calm, consistent approach.
• Experience working with SEND students (desirable but not essential).
• A proactive team player eager to grow as a SEND Teaching Assistant.
• High expectations for behaviour, engagement and progress.

Responsibilities

• Provide targeted 1:1 and small‑group support for students with SEND needs.
• Assist teachers in delivering differentiated learning and structured interventions.
• Help build confidence, independence and engagement in lessons.
• Support students with autism, ADHD, SEMH or mild learning difficulties.
• Contribute to EHCP targets, progress tracking and pastoral support.
• Play a key role in maintaining an inclusive, nurturing environment.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

SEND experience

Patience

Team player

Job description

SEND Teaching Assistant | Chelmsford Secondary School Start Date: September 2026 | Full-Time | Long-Term to Permanent

Are you a compassionate, proactive and resilient SEND Teaching Assistant looking to make a meaningful impact in a thriving Chelmsford secondary school? This is an exciting opportunity to support students with additional needs in a highly supportive, well‑structured environment that genuinely values its SEND provision.

This SEND Teaching Assistant role offers strong development, excellent mentoring and the chance to help shape positive outcomes for students across KS3–KS4.

Why this SEND Teaching Assistant role stands out

• Exceptional SEND support structure led by an experienced SENDCo
• Clear progression pathways into teaching, SEN specialisms or pastoral roles
• Strong behaviour systems ensuring a calm, purposeful learning environment
• Tailored CPD including autism, ADHD and SEMH training
• Highly collaborative team with shared strategies and consistent routines
• A warm, stable staff culture with low turnover

The Role – SEND Teaching Assistant

• Provide targeted 1:1 and small‑group support for students with SEND needs
• Assist teachers in delivering differentiated learning and structured interventions
• Help build confidence, independence and engagement in lessons
• Support students with autism, ADHD, SEMH or mild learning difficulties
• Contribute to EHCP targets, progress tracking and pastoral support
• Play a key role in maintaining an inclusive, nurturing environment

The Ideal SEND Teaching Assistant

• Empathetic, patient and committed to supporting vulnerable learners
• Strong communication skills and a calm, consistent approach
• Experience working with SEND students (desirable but not essential)
• A proactive team player eager to grow as a SEND Teaching Assistant
• High expectations for behaviour, engagement and progress