Teaching Assistant

Academics; Puckeridge; On-site; GBP 17,739 - 21,682; Full time

Job summary

Academics is recruiting a compassionate Teaching Assistant for a specialist SEN school in Ware, Hertfordshire to support children with Severe Learning Difficulties. The role suits those with care, early years, or support-work background and includes full training.

Working hours are 34 per week during term time, with permanent contract. You will work 1:1 and in small groups, assisting with communication, independence and daily routines, under the guidance of teachers and therapists.

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above)
• Caring, patient and positive attitude
• Excellent communication and teamwork
• Experience in care, early years, support work or healthcare welcomed

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) on a 1:1 basis and in small classes
• Help pupils develop communication, independence, and life skills throughout the school day
• Support learning through engaging activities tailored to individual needs
• Provide personal care and support with daily routines where required
• Encourage positive behaviour, wellbeing, and social development
• Work closely with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure pupils receive the best possible support

Skills

Caring

Patient

Communication

Teamwork

Education

GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above)

Job description

Teaching Assistant - Ware, Hertfordshire

Academics is recruiting for a compassionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join a specialist SEN school in Ware, Hertfordshire, supporting children and young people with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD). This role is ideal for individuals with a background in care, early years, support work, residential care, healthcare, or anyone looking to begin a rewarding career supporting pupils with complex learning needs. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

Position: Teaching Assistant
Location: Ware, Hertfordshire
Hours: Monday‑Friday, 8:45am‑3:45pm, with one day per week until 5:15pm (34 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
Salary: 19,711 pro rata

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) on a 1:1 basis and in small classes
• Help pupils develop communication, independence, and life skills throughout the school day
• Support learning through engaging activities tailored to individual needs
• Provide personal care and support with daily routines where required
• Encourage positive behaviour, wellbeing, and social development
• Work closely with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure pupils receive the best possible support

Requirements

• GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above)
• A caring, patient, and positive attitude
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needsExperience in care, early years, support work, healthcare, or a similar role is welcomed

Desirable

• Experience working with individuals with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Autism, or complex needs
• Previous Teaching Assistant or Learning Support Assistant experience
• NVQ Level 2/3 in Health & Social Care, Childcare, or a relevant qualification
• Safeguarding training

This is an excellent opportunity for a Teaching Assistant looking to transition from care or early years into education, or for someone seeking a highly rewarding role supporting pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties in Ware, Hertfordshire. You'll receive ongoing training, work as part of a supportive team, and make a lasting difference to the lives of young people every day.