Job Description

SEN Teaching Assistant (High Needs Provision) | Blackpool Primary Academy

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Salary: £14.24 - £15.00 per hour

Start Date: September 2026 - July 2027

Hours: Monday - Friday, 08:30 - 15:30 (Term-time only)

Contract: Temporary (Full Academic Year)

Are you a resilient and compassionate SEN specialist ready to be part of something brand new?

In September 2026, Blackpool Primary Academy is launching a bespoke SEN Provision within our mainstream setting. We are seeking a dedicated Teaching Assistant to join this specialised team, supporting our most vulnerable learners who require an alternative to the traditional classroom environment.

The Role: Specialist Support & Inclusion

This is not a standard classroom role. You will be working within a dedicated provision designed to bridge the gap between mainstream education and complex SEND needs. You will support pupils with a range of high-level needs, including:

  • Communication & Interaction: Supporting non-verbal pupils using AAC, signs, and gestures.

  • Sensory & Physical: Managing high sensory profiles and physical needs, ensuring a safe and accessible environment.

  • Triggers & Environment: Supporting pupils with visual or audio triggers and significant behavioural needs who cannot currently access a mainstream classroom.

  • Tailored Learning: Implementing highly individualised learning plans. You will not follow the full mainstream curriculum; instead, work is meticulously tailored to each pupil's IEP (Individual Education Plan) and EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan), based on their specific cognitive working level.

The Candidate

We are looking for a practitioner who views "small wins" as big victories. You must have:

  • Experience with High Needs: A proven background supporting pupils with complex ASD, non-verbal communication, or significant behavioural triggers.

  • Adaptability: The ability to pivot your support style based on a child's sensory or emotional state.

  • Expertise in Personalised Learning: Experience working directly with EHCPs and delivering non-standard curriculum content.

  • Commitment: As this is a new provision, consistency is vital for our pupils. We require a reliable professional for the full 2026/27 academic year.

Why Join Our New Provision?

  • Pioneering Work: Be a founding member of a brand-new internal provision aimed at true inclusion.

  • Competitive Pay: £14.24 - £15.00 per hour.

  • Professional Growth: Gain unique experience in a high-needs setting with the backing of a supportive Academy leadership team.

  • Work-Life Balance: Fixed hours of 08:30 - 15:30, Monday to Friday.

Why Choose Tradewind Education?

  • Sunday Times Top 100 Employer: We have been recognised for our commitment to staff for four years running.

  • AWR Protection: Ensuring your rights and pay are protected from day one.

  • Unrivalled CPD: Access to over 2,500 certified courses, including Team Teach, Autism Awareness, and Sensory Processing training.