Special Needs Teaching Assistant (Unqualified)

Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEND TA)

Location: Ashington
Contract: Full-time Monday to Friday Term Time Only

We are currently recruiting dedicated and compassionate Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants (SEND TAs) to work within specialist SEND settings in Ashington.

This full-time role involves supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) across both primary and secondary age groups. As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will play an important role in helping pupils access education, build confidence, and achieve their full potential within a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are patient, empathetic, and passionate about supporting children with additional needs. Placements may include specialist SEND schools, resource bases, or mainstream schools with dedicated SEND provisions. Pupils may have a variety of needs including Autism (ASC), ADHD, learning difficulties, sensory needs, or Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small group support for pupils with SEND

• Assist teachers with the delivery of tailored learning activities and classroom support

• Support pupils in developing communication, social, and emotional skills

• Help maintain a safe, inclusive, and structured learning environment

• Adapt learning materials and activities to meet individual pupil needs

• Encourage independence and confidence while providing appropriate support

• Support behaviour management strategies where required

• Assist with daily routines and transitions throughout the school day

• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and support staff

Requirements

• Have experience supporting individuals with SEND, either professionally or in a personal capacity

• Demonstrate a patient, resilient, and supportive approach

• Be comfortable working with pupils across primary and secondary SEND settings

• Possess strong communication and teamwork skills

• Be reliable, proactive, and adaptable

Essential

• An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply for one through Zen Educate

Experience and Qualifications

While not essential, the following experience or qualifications would be beneficial:

• Previous experience working in a school or educational setting

• Relevant qualifications such as:

  • Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification

  • Health and Social Care qualifications

  • Childcare or Education-related qualifications

  • Training or experience related to SEND support

Experience supporting pupils with:

• Autism (ASD)

• ADHD

• SEMH needs

• Speech and language difficulties

• Learning disabilities

Working Hours

• Monday to Friday

• Full-time

• Term-time only

• No weekend work

Why Work with us?

Working with us provides the opportunity to take on rewarding roles within education while receiving ongoing support from a team committed to helping you succeed.

Benefits include:

• Competitive daily pay

• Opportunities to work within specialist SEND schools and provisions

• Support from the team throughout your placement

• Access to a variety of education settings

• Potential opportunities for long-term placements

Who This Role Would Suit

• Are passionate about supporting children with special educational needs

• Have experience with SEND through professional or personal settings

• Are interested in careers within education, psychology, social work, or support work

• Enjoy working within inclusive and supportive learning environments

• Want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people