SEN - Sen Teaching Assistant

SEND Teaching Assistant - SEND High School

Location: Sale, Trafford
Contract: Temporary / Long-term
Full time/Part time: Full time - Monday to Friday
Start date: ASAP
Expected end date: End of the academic year

A supportive and inclusive SEND high school in Sale, Trafford is looking for a dedicated and resilient SEND Teaching Assistant to join their team on a full-time, long-term basis, starting as soon as possible and continuing until the end of the academic year.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about supporting secondary-aged pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and helping young people overcome barriers to learning, develop their independence and reach their potential.

The successful candidate will work alongside teachers, the SENCO and specialist support staff to provide targeted support to pupils with a range of additional needs, helping them access education and engage positively with school life.

About the Role

As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will provide 1:1, small-group and classroom-based support to pupils with additional needs, adapting your approach to meet each young person's individual needs.

Pupils may have a range of needs including autism, ADHD, communication difficulties, social and emotional needs, learning difficulties and challenging behaviours .

The school is looking for someone who is patient, resilient, nurturing and adaptable , with the confidence to build positive relationships with young people while maintaining clear and consistent boundaries.

You will play an important role in supporting pupils not only academically, but also with their communication, emotional regulation, confidence, independence and social development .

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1, small-group and classroom support for pupils with SEND.
• Support pupils to access lessons and engage positively with their learning.
• Adapt resources and approaches to meet individual needs and abilities.
• Support pupils with communication, emotional regulation and social interaction .
• Help pupils develop greater independence, confidence and resilience.
• Implement individual support plans and strategies alongside teaching and specialist staff.
• Use positive and consistent behaviour support and de-escalation strategies.
• Recognise potential triggers and respond calmly to behaviours that challenge.
• Support pupils during transitions and less structured parts of the school day.
• Monitor progress and provide appropriate feedback to teaching staff.
• Build positive and professional relationships with pupils, colleagues and families.
• Help maintain a safe, structured and nurturing learning environment.
• Follow the school's safeguarding, behaviour and SEND policies at all times.

The Ideal Candidate

• Has previous experience working with children or young people , ideally within SEND, secondary education, alternative provision, youth work or a similar setting.
• Has experience supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities .
• Is patient, resilient and able to remain calm in challenging situations.
• Understands that behaviour can be a form of communication.
• Can establish positive relationships while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Is confident supporting pupils with both their academic and emotional development .
• Can adapt their communication and support style to individual pupils.
• Has strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Is reliable, proactive and committed to improving outcomes for young people.
• Is willing to undertake relevant SEND, safeguarding and behaviour support training.
• Has the right to work in the UK.

Desirable, but Not Essential

• Previous experience as a SEND Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Behaviour Mentor or Youth Worker .
• Experience within a SEND school, alternative provision or specialist education setting .
• Experience supporting pupils with autism, ADHD, communication difficulties, learning difficulties or social and emotional needs .
• A relevant Teaching Assistant, childcare, education, psychology or health and social care qualification.
• Experience working with EHCPs or individual support plans.
• Training in areas such as Team Teach, autism awareness, behaviour support, Makaton or PECS .

This is a fantastic opportunity for a SEND Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding long-term role within a specialist SEND high school in Sale , supporting young people to overcome barriers, develop their independence and achieve positive outcomes both inside and outside the classroom.

What we offer

• Free access to CPD and safeguarding training
• Dedicated consultant and ongoing support

Compliance and safeguarding:

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS (child and adult workforce), satisfactory references, and full compliance with KCSIE (2026) guidance and safer recruitment standards. Overseas police checks may be required where applicable. Educato Limited is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Educato Limited acts as an employment business in relation to this vacancy.