Type of Position: Teaching Assistant

Aspire Academy Trust; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Part time

Job summary

Penryn Primary Academy, part of Aspire Academy Trust, is seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant for its Area Resource Base (ARB) to support 17 children aged 4–11 with complex learning needs.

The role involves delivering tailored activities, using non-verbal communication tools, and supporting personal care in a compassionate, patient manner within a specialised setting.

Qualifications

• Experience with and understanding of needs of children with Complex Learning Difficulties (ASD, EHCPs) is helpful.
• Ability to use non-verbal communication tools (e.g., PECS, Makaton) is advantageous.
• Strong resilience and compassionate attitude towards pupils and families.

Responsibilities

• Deliver bespoke learning activities designed by the Class Teacher to meet EHCPs.
• Support non-verbal learners using PECS, Makaton, or AAC devices to give them a voice.
• Assist with personal care, mobility, and wellbeing with dignity and respect.
• Create a calm, safe environment and manage sensory needs and complex behaviours.

Skills

Patience

Communication

Job description

Teaching Assistant (ARB) - Penryn Primary Academy

Type of Position: Teaching Assistant

Subject: EYFS, KS1 & KS2

Start Date: ASAP

Closing Date: 11th September 2026 at 9am

Penryn Primary Academy is looking for a dedicated, resilient, and compassionate Teaching Assistant to join our Area Resource Base (ARB). This isn't just a classroom; it's a specialised hub of learning and personalised support for 17 incredible children aged 4-11.

Working in the ARB requires a special kind of person. Our pupils face significant challenges, including Severe and Complex Learning Needs, ASD, Speech and Language difficulties, Physical Disabilities, and Global Developmental Delay.

The position is for 30 hours per week, fixed term until 31st August 2027, term time plus 2 INSET days.

As a TA here, you won't just be "helping out"-you will be the bridge between a child and their world.

Key Responsibilities:

• Tailored Support: Delivering bespoke learning activities designed by the Class Teacher to meet individual Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Communication Advocacy: Utilising tools like PECS, Makaton, or AAC devices to give our non-verbal learners a voice.
• Personal Care & Wellbeing: Assisting with physical needs, mobility, and personal care with dignity and respect.
• Sensory Regulation: Creating a cal, safe environment and managing sensory processing needs or complex behaviours with patience.

About You

We aren't necessarily looking for a "perfect" application; we are looking for the right heart and mindset.

• What you'll need - unwavering patience and a sense of humour, the ability to stay calm under pressure, a 'can-do' attitude towards personal care and a genuine belief that every child can thrive.
• What we'd love (but can train) - experience with ASD or complex needs, knowledge of Makaton, understanding of sensory needs, First Aid or Manual Handling training

Why Join Our ARB?

Our unit is a tight-knit community within the wider school. We offer:

• A Supportive Family: You'll work alongside specialist teachers, therapists, and fellow TAs who have your back.
• Professional Growth: Access to high-quality training in SEN strategies, safeguarding, and specialised communication.
• The "Spark" Moments: There is nothing quite like the feeling of a child making eye contact, using a new sign, or mastering a skill for the first time.

"In the ARB, we don't measure progress in miles; we measure it in miracles. If you want a job that truly matters, you've found it."