Job Description

Special Needs Teaching Assistant - Kettering

Location: Kettering, Northamptonshire
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Full-Time | Temp-to-Perm Opportunity
Pay: £93-£110 per day (dependent on experience)

Are you passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and making a meaningful difference every day?

A nurturing and inclusive school in Kettering is seeking a dedicated Special Needs Teaching Assistant to join their team from September. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a varied, rewarding environment and is committed to helping children overcome barriers to learning, build confidence, and achieve their full potential.

At this school, no two days are the same-and no two children are the same either. As a Special Needs Teaching Assistant, you'll play a vital role in supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, helping them succeed both academically and personally. You'll become a trusted adult, mentor, advocate, and positive role model, providing the support children need to flourish.

Your Role Will Involve:

  • Supporting pupils with a range of special educational needs, including Autism (ASC), ADHD, Speech and Language Difficulties, and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

  • Providing tailored 1:1 support and working with small intervention groups

  • Assisting teachers in delivering engaging and inclusive learning experiences

  • Implementing strategies outlined in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

  • Encouraging positive behaviour, independence, confidence, and engagement in learning

  • Supporting pupils during lessons, social times, educational visits, and enrichment activities

  • Helping children develop social, emotional, and communication skills

  • Managing classroom resources, creating engaging displays, and celebrating pupil achievements

  • Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils, staff, and families

As a Special Needs Teaching Assistant, you may find yourself supporting learning in the classroom one moment, conducting a science experiment the next, helping a child navigate friendships at lunchtime, accompanying pupils on educational visits, or celebrating a breakthrough achievement. TAs here are equal parts educator, key worker, counsellor, entertainer, problem solver, and positive role model.

We're Looking For Someone Who:

  • Has a genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs

  • Demonstrates patience, empathy, resilience, and a nurturing approach

  • Can build positive relationships and communicate effectively with pupils and staff

  • Remains calm and adaptable in a fast-paced school environment

  • Has experience working with children or young people in education, care, youth work, coaching, or support settings (desirable but not essential)

  • Is eager to develop their knowledge and understanding of SEND and inclusive education

What's in it for You?

  • A rewarding full-time role with the opportunity to secure a permanent position

  • Competitive daily pay rates of £93-£100 with weekly pay

  • A September start within a welcoming and supportive school community

  • Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

  • The chance to work alongside experienced SEND professionals

  • Dedicated support from a specialist Tradewind education consultant

Training and Development with Tradewind

Through Tradewind, you'll have access to over 2,500 CPD-certified courses via The National College. These include specialist training in safeguarding, SEND, autism awareness, behaviour management, mental health support, and inclusive classroom practice-all completely free of charge.

If you're looking for a role where every day brings new challenges, opportunities, and rewards, and where you can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to be considered for this Special Needs Teaching Assistant opportunity in Kettering starting in September, with the potential to secure a permanent position.