Teaching Assistant L2 SEN

Pikes Lane Primary; Bolton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Pikes Lane Primary School in Bolton is seeking a teaching assistant to join Discovery Den, our inclusion base for children with significant SEND. Working under the Discovery Den teacher and SENCO, you will support individuals and small groups, helping them communicate, learn, feel safe and gain independence.

The role involves implementing EHCP targets, using visual supports, adapting resources, and fostering calm, supportive routines within a nurturing primary setting.

Qualifications

• Has experience supporting primary-aged children with SEND.
• Calm, patient, reliable and adaptable with strong teamwork and communication.
• Has Level 2 qualification or equivalent knowledge and is willing to train.

Responsibilities

• Support children with complex needs including autism, communication and SEMH difficulties.
• Deliver teacher-planned activities and EHCP/learning-plan targets with routines and visual supports.
• Use communication approaches such as symbols, signing, PECS or devices with guidance.
• Build positive relationships, support emotional regulation, transitions and behaviour plans.
• Provide personal care following care plans and training.
• Observe progress and liaise with staff and safeguarding procedures.

Skills

SEND experience

Calm and patient

Teamwork & communication

Education

Level 2 qualification

Job description

Pikes Lane Primary School
Support Staff Vacancy January 2027
Teaching Assistant L2 SEN Discovery Den Inclusion Base
Contract: 12-month fixed term
Hours: 32.5 per week, term time + 5 days
Salary: Grade D, points 611
Actual Salary: £20,193.00-£21,865.00 plus SEN allowance

The Headteacher and Governors are looking to appoint a caring, skilled and enthusiastic Teaching Assistant to our join Discovery Den, our nurturing inclusion base for children with significant special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Working under the direction of the Discovery Den teacher and SENCO, you will support individual children and small groups, helping them communicate, learn, feel safe and develop independence, including planned participation in mainstream school life.

Key responsibilities

• Support children with a range of complex needs, including autism, communication and interaction difficulties, sensory differences, learning difficulties and SEMH needs.
• Deliver teacher-planned activities and individual EHCP / learning-plan targets, using structured routines, visual supports and adapted resources.
• Use agreed communication approaches, such as symbols, signing, PECS or communication devices, with appropriate guidance and training.
• Build positive relationships and support emotional regulation, sensory routines, safe transitions and individual behaviour or safety plans.
• Provide sensitive personal care, including hygiene and eating support where required, following care plans and training.
• Observe and record progress, work closely with staff and professionals, and follow safeguarding, confidentiality and school procedures.

We are looking for someone who

• Has experience supporting primary-aged children with SEND, or relevant experience and a commitment to developing specialist skills.
• Is calm, patient, reliable and adaptable, with strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Has a relevant Level 2 qualification or equivalent knowledge and experience, subject to recruitment requirements, and is willing to undertake training.

What we offer

A welcoming, diverse school community; enthusiastic children; a strong commitment to staff wellbeing; and support from experienced SEN colleagues and wider professionals.

Closing date and shortlisting: Monday 23 November 2026 9.00am
Interviews: Monday 30 November 2026

We regret that feedback cannot be provided to applicants who are not shortlisted.

Pikes Lane Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting children’s wellbeing. All staff are expected to share this commitment. Appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and safer recruitment procedures.

Supporting Documents

Job Description and Person Specification
Application Form
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