Job Description

SEN Teaching Assistant (Full-Time) - Sunderland

Location: Sunderland, Tyne and Wear
Company: Tradewind Recruitment
Job Type: Full-Time (Long-Term Supply)
Start Date: September 2026
Duration: Long-Term Opportunity
Salary: £95 - £110 per day (depending on experience and qualifications)

About the Role

Tradewind Recruitment is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a supportive and inclusive secondary school in Sunderland, seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistant to join their team from September 2026.

This full-time opportunity is ideal for an experienced Teaching Assistant or someone with a strong background in supporting young people with additional needs. The successful candidate will provide tailored support to students with Special Educational Needs, helping them access learning, develop confidence, and achieve their personal and academic goals.

Working closely with teaching staff, the SEN department, and pastoral teams, you will play a key role in creating a positive, structured, and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel supported and encouraged to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide 1:1 and small group support for students with Special Educational Needs
  • Support pupils with a range of additional needs, including ASD, ADHD, communication needs, and learning difficulties
  • Assist students in accessing lessons and developing independence
  • Work alongside teachers and SEN staff to implement individual support strategies
  • Encourage positive behaviour, engagement, and confidence in learning
  • Build strong relationships with students to support their emotional and academic development
  • Assist with classroom activities and promote an inclusive learning environment
  • Provide regular feedback to teaching staff regarding student progress and wellbeing

What We Offer

  • Competitive daily rates of £95 - £110 per day
  • Full-time role within a supportive Sunderland secondary school
  • Long-term opportunity from September 2026
  • Access to over 2,500 CPD courses, webinars, and professional development resources
  • Ongoing support from a dedicated education consultant
  • Opportunities for longer-term and permanent positions
  • Guaranteed pay scheme (subject to eligibility)
  • Uncapped refer-a-friend bonus scheme

Requirements

  • Previous experience supporting children or young people with additional needs
  • Experience working within a school, college, care, or support setting is desirable
  • A patient, caring, and resilient approach
  • Strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Ability to support students with a range of learning needs
  • Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one)
  • Two professional references covering the last two years
  • A proactive, reliable, and adaptable approach to supporting learners

About Tradewind Recruitment

With over 25 years of experience, Tradewind Recruitment is one of the UK's leading education recruitment agencies and a Sunday Times Top 100 employer. We are committed to supporting educators and matching talented education professionals with exceptional schools across the UK.

For more information, contact James Pullar on 0191 916 8853.