Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA), Full-Time

New Directions Holdings Limited; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 17,000; Part time

Job summary

New Directions Holdings Limited is seeking a dedicated Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant for a long-term, term-time only role at a Shirley-based special school. You will support pupils aged 4 to 19, promoting learning, wellbeing, and independence in a structured environment.

Experience with Autism and sensory processing, plus strong teamwork and communication skills, are essential. DBS Update Service is preferred or can be arranged. References covering at least 12 months are required.

Qualifications

• Experience of working with children or young people with Autism and/or additional needs.
• Understanding of sensory processing, emotional regulation, and behaviour that challenges.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent in demanding situations.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to inclusive education and pupil wellbeing.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you).
• Two satisfactory references covering a minimum of 12 months.

Responsibilities

• Behaviour that challenges
• Sensory processing difficulties
• Emotional dysregulation
• Non-verbal or minimally verbal communication needs
• Deliver targeted 1:1 and small-group support under the direction of the class teacher
• Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), EHCP outcomes, and personalised learning programs
• Support pupils to engage with learning activities using structured approaches (e.g. visual supports, clear routines)

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Patience

Inclusion

Job description

Job Title
Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)
School Type
Special School
Age Range of Pupils
4 to 19 years
Location
School‑based – Shirley (B90)
Contract Type
Long-Term, Term-time only

Job Purpose
The Special Needs Teaching Assistant will support the learning, wellbeing, communication, and personal development of children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated needs. The role focuses on enabling pupils to access education safely and meaningfully, promoting emotional regulation, communication, and independence within a structured, nurturing, and sensory‑informed environment.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Learning Support

• Behaviour that challenges
• Sensory processing difficulties
• Emotional dysregulation
• Non‑verbal or minimally verbal communication needs
• Deliver targeted 1:1 and small‑group support under the direction of the class teacher
• Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), EHCP outcomes, and personalised learning programs
• Support pupils to engage with learning activities using structured approaches (e.g. visual supports, clear routines)

Person Requirements

• Experience of working with children or young people with Autism and/or additional needs
• Understanding of sensory processing, emotional regulation, and behaviour that challenges
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent in demanding situations
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Commitment to inclusive education and pupil wellbeing
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you)
• Two satisfactory references covering a minimum of 12 months