Special Needs Teaching Assistant (SNA)

Tradewind Recruitment; Blackpool; On-site; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking compassionate Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to support students with special educational needs in Blackpool. This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on students' lives by providing essential support in their educational journey. As an SNA, you will work closely with teachers and other professionals to create an inclusive learning environment, helping students develop their independence and fully engage with the curriculum. If you have a passion for education and a commitment to making a difference, this is an exciting opportunity to join a supportive team dedicated to student success.

Benefits

Supportive working environment

Access to training and professional development

Opportunity to make a difference

Qualifications

• Passion for working with children with special educational needs.
• Ability to follow instructions and implement support plans effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one support to students with special educational needs.
• Assist with personal care and promote student independence.
• Collaborate with teachers to implement support strategies.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Communication Skills

Team Collaboration

Understanding of SEN

Education

CACHE Level 2 or 3

Tools

First Aid Certification

Manual Handling Training

Job description

Special Needs Assistant (SNA) - Blackpool, UK

Are you a caring and dedicated individual looking for a rewarding role as a Special Needs Assistant (SNA) in Blackpool, UK? Do you have a passion for supporting students with special educational needs and helping them thrive in their school life? If so, we want to hear from you!

The Role:

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to join our team in Blackpool, UK, or to work with various schools across the region through our agency (Tradewind). As an SNA, you will provide direct support to students with a range of special educational needs, helping them to access the curriculum, develop their independence, and fully participate in all aspects of school life within the UK education system.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with identified special educational needs, as outlined in their Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
2. Assist students with personal care, mobility, communication, and learning activities, promoting their independence where possible.
3. Work closely with teachers and the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) to implement EHCPs and support strategies.
4. Help to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students.
5. Assist with the preparation of resources and the adaptation of materials to meet individual student needs.
6. Provide feedback to teachers on student progress and any challenges encountered.
7. Participate in relevant training and professional development related to special education in the UK.
8. Adhere to school policies and procedures, including safeguarding and child protection guidelines in the UK.

About You:

1. A genuine passion for working with children and young people with special educational needs within the UK education system.
2. Empathy, patience, and a caring approach to supporting students with diverse needs.
3. Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with teachers, parents/carers, and other professionals in the UK.
4. Good communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Ability to follow instructions and implement support plans effectively.
6. Awareness of different special educational needs and appropriate support strategies within the UK context.
7. Commitment to the well-being and development of students with SEN in the UK.
8. Understanding of the importance of maintaining confidentiality.
9. Willingness to undertake relevant training.

Desirable:

1. Previous experience working as an SNA or in a similar support role with children with special educational needs in the UK.
2. Relevant qualifications or training in special education or childcare in the UK (e.g., CACHE Level 2 or 3).
3. Knowledge of specific special educational needs (e.g., autism, ADHD, dyslexia) and related support strategies within the UK framework.
4. First Aid certification.
5. Manual Handling training.
6. Experience with assistive technologies.
7. A valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate on the update service.

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire, UK
Contract Type: Full Time / Part Time / Term Time (depending on the role)
Salary: £92 per day minimum (PAYE).
Start Date: 23/04/2025 or after.

Benefits:

1. The rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students with special educational needs in Blackpool, UK.
2. Supportive and collaborative working environment within UK schools.
3. Access to relevant training and professional development in special education in the UK.

How to Apply:
If you are a dedicated and compassionate individual looking for an SNA role in Blackpool, UK, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and your passion for supporting students with SEN to (url removed). Please include "SNA Application - Blackpool UK" in the subject line.
Closing Date for Applications: 30/04/2025.

Tradewind Education is committed to equal opportunities and safeguarding and an enhanced DBS check will be required for this position in accordance with UK regulations.