Job Description

Are you an empathetic, resilient Learning Support Assistant looking to empower a young person through their secondary education?

We are seeking a dedicated and proactive 1:1 EHCP Teaching Assistant to join a supportive secondary school in Preston.

In this role, you will provide targeted one-to-one academic and pastoral support to a Key Stage 3 / Key Stage 4 student with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). You will navigate the high school timetable alongside the pupil, helping them overcome learning barriers, build emotional resilience, and develop key independent study and social skills.

The Role & Key Responsibilities

  • Provide tailored 1:1 in-class support across a secondary subject timetable (needs typically involve ASC, ADHD, SEMH, processing differences, or physical needs).

  • Differentiate learning resources and break down complex subject material into structured, accessible tasks.

  • Support emotional regulation, managing sensory overload, anxiety, and transitions between lesson periods.

  • Facilitate positive peer interactions and support social inclusion during class discussions and unstructured break times.

  • Work in close alignment with Subject Teachers, the SENCO, and the Pastoral Year Team to track progress against EHCP targets.

  • Foster self-advocacy and independence to prepare the student for GCSEs / post-16 pathways.

Candidate Profile & Requirements

  • Experience: Proven experience working with teenagers (aged 11-16) with additional needs or SEND; prior 1:1 secondary or upper-KS2 experience is highly advantageous.

  • Qualifications: Level 2 / Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification, youth work credential, or relevant degree (Psychology, Education, Criminology).

  • Communication & Presence: Patient, approachable, and able to establish strong boundaries and mutual respect with adolescents.

  • Specialist Skills: Familiarity with neurodiversity strategies (ASC / ADHD), de-escalation, and anxiety reduction techniques; Team Teach training is a plus.

  • Safeguarding: Must hold or be willing to apply for an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS on the Update Service, backed by checkable employment references.

  • Location: Easily commutable across Preston, South Ribble, and surrounding Central Lancashire areas.

Why Choose This Role?

  • Meaningful Secondary Impact: Guide an adolescent through crucial educational years and watch their confidence and independence grow.

  • Long-Term Stability: A consistent full-time assignment throughout the academic year with clear potential to transition onto a permanent school contract.

  • Reliable Schedule: Standard secondary school hours (finish by 3:15 pm), Monday to Friday, term-time only.

  • Transparent Weekly Pay: Competitive daily rates paid directly via PAYE with no hidden fees or umbrella deductions.

How to Apply

If you have the passion, patience, and motivation to make a lasting difference to a young person in high school, we would love to hear from you.

Click 'Apply Now' with your CV, or contact our team directly to arrange a school visit and trial day.

1:1 TA, EHCP, Secondary School, High School, SEND, ASC, ADHD, SEMH, SEN Support, Preston, PR1, PR2, Central Lancashire, Term-Time, PAYE.