Job Description

A high-achieving and inclusive secondary school in Kirkham (PR4) is seeking an empathetic, proactive, and resilient 1:1 Teaching Assistant to support a Key Stage 3 / Key Stage 4 student with additional learning needs.

This role focuses on providing personalised academic support, building emotional resilience, and helping the student access the mainstream curriculum with confidence. You will work closely with class teachers, the SENCo, and pastoral leads to create a positive, structured learning environment.

This position is ideal for an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant, a Psychology/Education graduate seeking secondary school experience, or a dedicated youth worker looking for consistent school hours.

Key Responsibilities

  • Targeted 1:1 Support: Work individually with an assigned secondary pupil across core and foundation subjects, breaking down tasks and adapting materials to match their learning pace.

  • Emotional & Behavioural Regulation: Promote positive behaviour and emotional well-being using calm, structured, and non-confrontational de-escalation strategies.

  • Promote Independence: Encourage self-esteem, self-advocacy, and social inclusion among peers, ensuring the student does not become over-reliant on adult support.

  • Collaboration & Feedback: Liaise regularly with subject teachers, the SENCo, and parents/carers to monitor progress against Individual Education Plans (IEPs) / EHCP outcomes.

  • Pastoral & Transition Care: Assist with smooth transitions between lessons, breaktimes, and unstructured parts of the school day.

Candidate Requirements

  • DBS Check (Essential): Must hold an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS registered on the DBS Update Service (or be prepared to process a fast-track check through us).

  • Experience: Previous experience supporting young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)-such as ASC, ADHD, SEMH, or moderate learning difficulties (MLD)-in a secondary school, college, or specialist setting.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build rapport with teenagers quickly and professionally.

  • Patience & Resilience: A calm, adaptable persona capable of handling challenging classroom situations constructively.

  • Location: Must be based in or within an easy commute of Kirkham / Fylde / Preston (PR4).

What the School & Agency Offer

  • Consistent Hours: Full-time, Monday-Friday daytime hours (term-time only, no weekends or late evenings).

  • Competitive PAYE Pay: Paid weekly without umbrella company admin deductions.

  • Professional Development: Access to accredited CPD courses (Safeguarding Level 2, De-escalation & Behaviour Management, Autism Awareness).

  • Supportive Environment: Join a welcoming SEN department with structured guidance from an experienced SENCo.

  • Career Growth: Excellent pathway into secondary teaching, educational psychology, or pastoral leadership.

How to Apply

To be considered for an immediate trial or interview at this Kirkham secondary school, please submit your up-to-date CV directly to rachael.boaler@twrecruitment.com with the subject line "Kirkham - 1:1 Teaching Assistant Application".

1:1 Teaching Assistant * SEN Teaching Assistant * Secondary School TA * Kirkham Jobs * Preston Education Jobs * Lancashire Schools * EHCP Support * SEMH TA * Autism Support Assistant * Enhanced DBS * Term Time Only