Special Needs Support Worker

GSL Education; Merley; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education is seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with severe and complex needs in Poole. The role involves 1:1 and small group support, helping pupils access learning, and promoting independence in a caring school environment.

Ideal candidates will have experience with autism or SEN, a calm and empathetic approach, and strong teamwork and communication skills. DBS and right to work in the UK are required, with safeguarding knowledge essential.

Qualifications

• Experience with children or young people with autism or SEN is desirable.
• Calm, patient and empathetic approach to supporting pupils with additional needs.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with complex needs.
• Support pupils with communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction.
• Assist in implementing EHCP targets, behaviour plans, and individual support strategies.
• Help create a calm, structured, and inclusive learning environment.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals.
• Promote pupils’ independence, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.
• Follow safeguarding procedures and school policies at all times.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Patience

Empathy

Job description

Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Start Date: ASAP
Contract Type: Full-Time

Hours: 8.45am to 3.45pm – 5 days per week

Are you a patient, compassionate, and dedicated individual passionate about supporting children with Special Needs? GSL Education are seeking a committed Teaching Assistant to join a welcoming and inclusive school community in Poole, starting ASAP.

As a Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting pupils with severe and complex needs, including communication difficulties, sensory processing challenges, physical disabilities, mobility issues, complex needs and other associated needs. You will work closely with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and support staff to help pupils access learning, develop independence, and feel confident within the school environment. This role is ideal for individuals with experience in autism support, SEN, care, or behavioural support.

Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with complex needs.
• Support pupils with communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction.
• Assist in implementing EHCP targets, behaviour plans, and individual support strategies.
• Help create a calm, structured, and inclusive learning environment.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals.
• Promote pupils’ independence, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.
• Follow care plans, safeguarding procedures, and school policies at all times.

Requirements:

• Previous experience working with children or young people with autism or SEN is desirable.
• A calm, patient, and empathetic approach to supporting pupils with additional needs.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• A positive, flexible, and proactive attitude.

To work with GSL Education as an SEN Teaching Assistant you should:

• Have the right to work in the UK.
• Have an up-to-date CV with two relevant references from within the last 2 years.
• Have an enhanced DBS registered to the update service or be willing to apply for one with GSL Education.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.