SEND Teaching Assistant — Complex Needs & Autism Support

New Directions; Manchester; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

New Directions Education Ltd is seeking an experienced SEND Teaching Assistant to support children with complex and additional needs in Greater Manchester. Roles are full-time, long-term, with flexible day-to-day supply options and ASAP start. Experience in specialist SEND settings is highly valued.

You will work 1:1 and in small groups, adapting activities to individual needs, using visual supports and structured routines to promote engagement and learning. DBS checked applicants are preferred.

Qualifications

• Previous experience supporting children with SEND in a school setting is essential.
• Experience in a specialist SEND school, resource provision or high-needs setting is highly desirable.
• Experience supporting pupils with complex needs, autism, non-verbal communication or significant learning difficulties is beneficial.
• Confident providing 1:1 support and adapting activities to meet individual needs.
• Able to use a patient, flexible and consistent approach.
• Confident supporting behaviour and responding calmly to challenging situations.
• Understanding of visual supports, communication strategies and individual support plans is advantageous.
• Comfortable supporting personal care where required, with appropriate training and guidance.
• Strong teamwork, communication and safeguarding awareness.
• Reliable, adaptable and available to start ASAP.

Responsibilities

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with high levels of need.
• Supporting children with autism, communication difficulties, learning disabilities and other complex needs, depending on the setting.
• Helping pupils access personalised learning activities suited to their developmental level.
• Using visual supports, structured routines and alternative communication methods to promote engagement and understanding.
• Supporting emotional regulation, positive behaviour and social development.
• Encouraging pupils to develop communication, confidence and independence at their own pace.
• Supporting children who may access both a specialist provision and mainstream classroom learning.
• Following individual education, behaviour and care plans to ensure consistent support.
• Working closely with teachers, SENCOs and other school staff to meet pupils’ individual needs.
• Supporting personal care where required and where this forms part of the role and the candidate’s experience.

Job description

New Directions Education Ltd is seeking an experienced SEND Teaching Assistant to support children with complex and additional needs in Greater Manchester. Roles are full-time, long-term, with flexible day-to-day supply options and ASAP start. Experience in specialist SEND settings is highly valued.

You will work 1:1 and in small groups, adapting activities to individual needs, using visual supports and structured routines to promote engagement and learning. DBS checked applicants are preferred.