Teaching Assistant

SMART Education Recruitment; Darlaston; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

SMART Education Recruitment in Walsall is seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with Autism and communication needs within a specialist SEND setting. You will work 1:1 and in small groups with the SEND team and teachers, adapting activities and resources to help pupils access learning and develop confidence, independence and communication skills.

This full-time, long-term role starts October 2026 and offers competitive daily pay, safeguarding training and opportunities for

Qualifications

• At least 6 months' experience supporting children or young people with SEND.
• Experience working with Autism and communication needs highly desirable.
• Background in mainstream or specialist school environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEND.
• Assist pupils with Autism and communication challenges.
• Help pupils access classroom activities and adapt resources as required.
• Encourage pupil engagement, communication and independence.
• Work collaboratively with the class teacher and SEND professionals.
• Monitor and record pupil progress and feedback.
• Foster positive relationships and promote social and emotional development.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive learning environment.
• Follow safeguarding procedures and individual support plans.

Skills

SEND experience

Autism experience

School environments

1:1 & group support

Communication needs

Patient & nurturing

Relationship building

DBS Update Service

References 24 months

Job description

Are you passionate about supporting children with special educational needs? If you are seeking a rewarding role where your patience, compassion and specialist skills are valued every day, this long-term SEN Teaching Assistant opportunity in Walsall could be the perfect next step.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive daily pay: £95.00 - £109.25 per day
• Choice of PAYE or Umbrella payment options
• Full-time, long-term assignment starting October 2026
• Chance to further your experience in a specialist SEND education setting
• Work alongside experienced teachers and SEND professionals
• Help pupils with additional needs develop confidence, independence and communication skills

The Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with the class teacher and the wider SEND team to deliver consistent, tailored support to pupils with Autism and communication needs. Your role combines 1:1 and small-group support, adapting activities and resources to ensure each pupil can engage fully with their learning. You will help create a positive learning environment, using visual and structured approaches and working flexibly to meet individual needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with SEND
• Assist pupils with Autism and communication challenges
• Help pupils access classroom activities and adapt resources as required
• Encourage pupil engagement, communication and independence
• Work collaboratively with the class teacher and SEND professionals
• Monitor and record pupil progress and feedback
• Foster positive relationships and promote social and emotional development
• Maintain a safe, inclusive learning environment
• Follow safeguarding procedures and individual support plans

Skills and Experience

• At least 6 months' experience supporting children or young people with SEND
• Experience working with Autism and communication needs highly desirable
• Background in mainstream or specialist school environments
• Confidence providing both 1:1 and group support
• Understanding of diverse communication and learning needs
• Patient, resilient and nurturing attitude
• Ability to build consistent relationships with pupils
• Enhanced Child DBS on the Update Service (or willing to have one processed)
• Ability to provide suitable references covering your recent 24 months

Location and Package

This is a full-time, long-term SEN Teaching Assistant role based in Walsall, working Monday to Friday during standard school hours. You will enjoy a competitive daily rate and opportunities for professional development within a specialist education environment.

If you are a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant who enjoys supporting children and young people to develop their skills and independence, this role offers you the chance to make a meaningful impact in their learning journey.