Education

Applicants should have a solid general education, ideally to Level 3 or equivalent, with a good standard of literacy and numeracy. Further training or qualifications related to special educational needs would be an advantage but are not essential for those with the right experience and passion for supporting children with additional needs.

Qualifications

• Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent experience)
• GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics
• Training in areas such as Autism, Makaton, or PECS (desirable)
• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures
• Willingness to undertake ongoing professional development

Experience

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with special educational needs (particularly Autism Spectrum Disorder and complex learning needs)
• Experience working within a classroom or care environment
• Proven ability to build positive relationships with pupils and staff
• Experience supporting communication, emotional regulation, and sensory needs
• Ability to implement behaviour management strategies effectively
• Experience contributing to personalised learning and development plans

Job Specifics

This is a rewarding opportunity to join a dedicated team supporting pupils with a range of special educational needs. The successful candidate will work closely with class teachers and therapists to provide individual and group support that helps pupils access the curriculum and reach their full potential.

Key responsibilities will include:

• To work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, and external specialists
• To support the delivery of individual education plans (IEPs)
• To maintain accurate records of pupil progress and behaviour
• To always uphold the school’s safeguarding and welfare policies
• Providing tailored classroom support to meet pupils’ individual needs
• Assisting with learning activities, behaviour regulation, and personal care where required
• Promoting independence and social interaction through structured routines and positive reinforcement
• Supporting the development of communication skills using specialist approaches (e.g., visual aids, Makaton, or PECS)
• Recording pupil progress and assisting in the preparation of learning resources

About the School

This well-established special school in East London provides a caring and structured learning environment for pupils with a range of complex needs, including autism, communication difficulties, and sensory impairments. Staff are committed to helping each pupil achieve their full potential through personalised teaching and consistent support.

The school is proud of its inclusive ethos and places strong emphasis on teamwork, professional development, and emotional wellbeing. You will join a collaborative and skilled team where creativity, patience, and compassion are valued daily. There is a strong focus on training and continuous improvement, ensuring all staff feel confident in delivering high-quality support.

New staff benefit from a structured induction programme, regular mentoring, and access to a range of CPD opportunities designed to develop expertise in special educational needs and inclusive practice. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone seeking to build a career in SEND education, whether experienced or new to the field.

Transport Requirement

The successful candidate must have access to their own transport.

Contract Type

This role is offered on a full-time, permanent basis.

Safeguarding Statement

All candidates must either hold a valid DBS certificate or be willing to obtain one prior to starting this role.