Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN)

Pioneer House High School; Manchester; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A special educational institution in Manchester is looking for a Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN) to join its team. This role involves supporting children with significant additional needs. Key responsibilities include helping with small group activities, supervising pupils during teacher absence, and maintaining records of pupil progress. Ideal candidates should have strong literacy and numeracy skills and an understanding of child development. The position offers a starting salary of £21,662 for 35 hours per week during term time along with several attractive benefits.

Benefits

High-quality CPD

Bupa Level 1 Health Plan

Generous pension contribution

Good holidays

Cycle Scheme

Employee Assistance Programmes

Credit Union

Flexible working options

Mental Health First Aid

Blue Light Card

bYond cashback card

Qualifications

• Understanding of the Teaching Assistant role and child development.
• Experience with children or young people with complex learning needs.
• Ability to communicate clearly in spoken English.

Responsibilities

• Support small groups of children in learning activities.
• Assist with supervision during teacher absence.
• Provide feedback on pupil progress.

Skills

Strong literacy and numeracy skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Understanding of child development

Education

Level 2 qualification in literacy and numeracy or above

Job description

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Teaching Assistant Level 1 (SEN) to join our fantastic team at Pioneer House High School – a special school in Northern Moor providing education for pupils aged 11‑19 with significant additional needs.

This is a Grade 3 permanent post of 35 hours per week during term time plus 5 INSET days. The starting salary is £21,662, with a full‑time equivalent of £25,185.

Responsibilities

• Supporting small groups of children and implementing Individual Learning Plans.
• Assisting with supervision during teacher absence (short periods).
• Providing feedback on pupil progress and maintaining records.
• Ensuring equal access to learning for all pupils.
• Participating in relevant training and development.
• Demonstrating commitment to performance management and continuous improvement.
• Communicating effectively and professionally with pupils, staff, parents and external agencies.

Qualifications & Experience

• Understanding of the Teaching Assistant role and child development and learning.
• Strong literacy and numeracy skills (qualified to Level 2 or above).
• Works effectively as part of a team and is committed to high professional standards.
• Tactful, diplomatic and able to build positive relationships with all stakeholders.
• Experience or keen interest in working with children or young people with communication difficulties, severe, profound or complex learning needs.
• Can communicate clearly and confidently in spoken English.

Benefits

• High‑quality CPD for all roles.
• Bupa Level 1 Health Plan – annual cash‑back allowance for everyday health care expenses.
• Generous pension contribution – over 26 % for teachers and over 17 % for support staff.
• Good holidays – teachers as per School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document; non‑teachers receive 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days with 5 years’ service.
• Cycle Scheme – save up to 39 % on a bike and accessories and get Strava for free.
• Employee Assistance Programmes – access to free counselling and 24/7 helplines.
• Credit Union – regular savings, Christmas saving scheme and access to affordable loans.
• Flexible working options – we’re happy to discuss flexible working where possible.
• Mental Health First Aid in every school.
• Blue Light Card – discounts on holidays, cars, days out, fashion, gifts, insurance, phones and many more.
• bYond cashback card – spend smarter with a prepaid cashback card for everyday purchases.

Job Application Information

• Apply through JobTrain: JobLink (CVs are not accepted).
• Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to close the vacancy early.
• Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a self‑disclosure declaration and may undergo an Enhanced Disclosure check.
• All positions require the right to work in the UK; we do not sponsor visa applications.

Safeguarding Commitment

All schools within the Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Equality Statement

Prospere Learning Trust values diversity and welcomes applications from all candidates, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation.

For application support, contact 0161 527 7953 or email [e-mail].