Teaching Assistant

SMART Education Recruitment; Welford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized education recruitment agency is looking for a full-time Teaching Assistant for a long-term role starting in January 2026. Located in Newbury, the role involves supporting pupils aged 6-19 with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Ideal candidates must have GCSE qualifications in English and Maths, experience in educational settings, and a compassionate approach. This position offers professional development opportunities and a chance to make a meaningful impact on young people's lives.

Benefits

Part of a supportive and nurturing staff team

Opportunities for professional development

Engaging environment with outdoor learning

Qualifications

• GCSE English & Maths or equivalent required.
• Experience supporting pupils with SEMH, ASC, or complex needs is desirable.
• Teaching Assistant experience within SEN or mainstream settings is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with complex needs in both 1:1 and small-group settings.
• Assist with preparing learning materials and classroom activities.
• Promote independence, emotional regulation, and positive engagement.

Skills

Experience supporting pupils with SEMH, ASC, or complex needs

Ability to adopt a therapeutic, patient, and flexible approach

Compassionate and resilient

Commitment to safeguarding

Education

GCSE English & Maths or equivalent

Job description

Job Title

Teaching Assistant

Pay Rate

£101.22 - £105.05 per day

Location

Newbury, Berkshire

Hours

Full-time | Monday - Friday | 40 hours per week Term Time Only | January 2026 Start

Overview

Smart Education is recruiting for a Teaching Assistant to join a specialist provision in the Newbury area. This is a full-time opportunity supporting pupils aged 6-19 with SEMH, ASC, and a range of complex needs. The setting offers an engaging, therapeutic learning environment with a strong focus on outdoor education, personal development, and emotional wellbeing.

Benefits of working as a Teaching Assistant

• Be part of a supportive, nurturing staff team
• Opportunity to work closely with pupils who benefit from consistent, personalised support
• Join an environment that incorporates outdoor learning, forest school, and hands‑on activities
• Stable, long‑term role with professional development opportunities
• Make a meaningful impact on young people’s lives every single day

Job Requirements

• GCSE English & Maths or equivalent
• Experience supporting pupils with SEMH, ASC, or complex needs (desirable)
• Teaching Assistant experience within SEN or mainstream settings
• Ability to adopt a therapeutic, patient, and flexible approach
• Compassionate, resilient, and committed to safeguarding
• Enhanced Child & Adult Workforce DBS (or willingness to obtain one)
• UK-based applicants only

Role Responsibilities

• Support pupils with complex needs in both 1:1 and small-group settings
• Assist with preparing learning materials and classroom activities
• Promote independence, emotional regulation, and positive engagement
• Work collaboratively with teachers and support teams
• Maintain a safe, nurturing, and structured environment
• Provide supportive, trauma-informed responses to behaviour
• Contribute to pupils’ academic, social, and emotional development

About Smart Education

Smart Education is a specialist Education and Early Years agency, recruiting for both permanent and temporary roles including Teachers, Teaching Assistants, SEND professionals, Nursery Nurses, and Tutors. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to undertake an Enhanced Child & Adult Workforce DBS check. It is an offence to apply for the role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults.