Teaching Assistant - Supporting a child with SEND

Haynes Lower School; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 9,000 - 12,000; Part time

Job summary

Haynes Lower School in the United Kingdom is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to support a child with SEND on a 1:1 basis. The role operates Monday to Friday, 22.5 hours per week, 08:30–13:00, during term time with 5 training days per academic year.

The appointment is a fixed-term contract initially (asap to 31.08.2027) on NJC Scale Level 2A. The school values a caring, collaborative team environment that fosters growth and development for both pupils and staff.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEND, ideally on a 1:1 basis.
• Ability to adapt materials for different learning needs.
• Commitment to safeguarding and creating a nurturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualised support to students in Literacy, Numeracy and social-emotional development.
• Assist with lesson preparation and materials.
• Support positive behaviour management and classroom routines.
• Observe and report pupil progress and difficulties to teachers.

Skills

1:1 SEND support

Literacy support

Numeracy support

Behaviour management

Emotional wellbeing support

Job description

Teaching Assistant - Supporting a child with SEND: working 1:1

Monday - Friday

22.5 hours per week: 08.30 - 13.00

NJC Scale Level 2A

Term Time Only and 5 Training Days per academic year

Fixed Term Contract Initially: asap - 31.08.2027

About Us

Nestled in the heart of a welcoming and friendly Central Bedfordshire village, Haynes Lower School and Nursery is a small, nurturing Lower School that prides itself on providing a safe, welcoming, and creative environment for all our children. Our close-knit team of staff work together to ensure each child is encouraged to grow, explore, and develop to their fullest potential. We are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Teaching Assistant to support our children with SEND to join our school, to join our passionate team and make a positive impact on the next generation.

The Role

A dedicated, passionate, and knowledgeable Teaching Assistant (TA) in a lower school plays a vital role in supporting both children and teachers, helping to create a positive and effective learning environment. Their responsibilities extend beyond basic classroom assistance—they act as mentors, facilitators, and caretakers, ensuring that every young learner receive the guidance they need to succeed.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Works closely with children, providing individualised support to those who need extra help with Literacy, Numeracy, Emotional Well-Being, Mental Health Needs or other subjects.
• Encourages and motivates children, fostering confidence and independence in their learning.
• Adapts teaching materials to suit different learning styles and abilities.

• Helps with lesson planning and preparation; ensuring materials and resources are ready for activities.
• Supports behaviour management, maintaining a positive and structured classroom atmosphere.
• Provides feedback to the teacher about the children’s progress and any challenges observed.

• Encourages curiosity and enthusiasm for learning through interactive activities.
• Uses creative strategies to make lessons fun and accessible for all children.
• Supports social and emotional development by fostering kindness, empathy, and teamwork.

• Acts as a caring and approachable role model for children, offering emotional support when needed.
• Helps create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing classroom atmosphere where every child feels valued.
• Observes children for any signs of distress or difficulties and communicates concerns to teachers or parents.

• Models respectful and positive behaviour, reinforcing the school’s values.
• Encourages collaboration and good social skills among children.
• Helps manage transitions between activities smoothly, reducing disruptions.

A passionate TA brings energy and commitment, ensuring that every child receives the attention and support they need to thrive. A knowledgeable TA understands child development, different learning strategies, and classroom management techniques, making them an invaluable asset to the lower school setting. Ultimately, a dedicated teaching assistant contributes significantly to shaping a child's early learning experiences, laying the foundation for future academic and personal success.

Why Join Us

• A highly supportive and friendly team of staff.
• The opportunity to work in a beautiful, village school with strong community links.
• Ongoing professional development and career progression.
• A chance to make a real difference in the lives of young children.
• A warm, inclusive school culture where every member of staff is valued.
• A strong values-based education shown by all members of our community.
• A supportive Management Team and Governing Body.

Safeguarding Statement

Haynes Lower School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This post is subject to an enhanced disclosure application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). CVs will not be accepted for any posts based in school. We are an Equal Opportunities employer. As part of the shortlisting process, we will carry out an online search as part of our due diligence for shortlisted candidates.