SEN Teaching Assistant - Secondary

Location: Northamptonshire
Contract: Full-time, 12-week temp-to-perm
Start Date: September
Pay: Competitive, dependent on experience

Tradewind Recruitment are currently looking for an experienced and caring SEN Teaching Assistant to join a small specialist school attached to a residential home in Northamptonshire.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a small, supportive environment and has experience supporting children or young people with additional needs.

The Role

You will be working within a small class of just a class of under 10 secondary-aged students, alongside another 2 Teaching Assistants and a HLTA. The students have severe learning difficulties (SLD) and can become dysregulated at times, so the school is looking for someone who is calm, consistent and confident in supporting pupils with a range of additional needs.

The curriculum has a strong focus on sensory-based learning, communication and developing independence, with pupils supported through approaches including PECS, Makaton and other alternative communication strategies.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to secondary-aged pupils.
• Supporting pupils with SLD and additional learning needs.
• Helping pupils to regulate and manage their emotions and behaviour.
• Supporting communication through PECS, Makaton and other AAC approaches.
• Delivering sensory-based learning activities alongside teaching staff.
• Encouraging independence and developing pupils' social and communication skills.
• Building positive, trusting relationships with pupils.
• Working closely with the class teacher, HLTA and wider staff team.
• Supporting a safe, positive and inclusive learning environment.

About You

The school is looking for someone who:

• Has previous experience working within an SEN or specialist education setting.
• Has experience supporting children or young people with SLD, complex needs or communication difficulties.
• Is calm, patient and consistent when supporting pupils who may become dysregulated.
• Has a positive and nurturing approach.
• Is confident working as part of a small team.
• Is proactive and willing to get involved with sensory and practical learning activities.
• Has a genuine interest in helping young people develop their confidence, communication and independence.

Experience with PECS, Makaton, AAC or sensory-based learning would be highly beneficial, although training and support may be available for the right person.

Why Work with Tradewind Recruitment?

As a Teaching Assistant working through Tradewind, you'll have access to:

• Competitive rates of pay.
• A dedicated consultant who will support you throughout your placement.
• Access to free CPD and training through our National College partnership.
• Opportunities for longer-term and permanent positions.
• A straightforward registration and compliance process.
• Weekly pay.

This position is offered on a 12-week temp-to-perm basis, with the opportunity to move into a permanent position with the school following the initial placement.

If you're an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding role where you can make a real difference to a small group of young people, we'd love to hear from you.