Speech and Language Teaching Assistant

Position: Speech and Language Teaching Assistant

Location: Southend

Salary Scale: £92.59-£120 per day

Contract Type: Full-time

GSL are seeking a dedicated Speech and Language Teaching Assistant to support children and young people within a special educational needs (SEN) setting. This role involves working with pupils who have a range of communication and interaction needs, helping them to develop their speech, language, social communication, confidence, and independence both inside and outside the classroom.

You will work alongside experienced teachers, SEN professionals, Speech and Language Therapists, and support staff to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and achieve their full academic, social, and personal potential.

If you are an experienced Teaching Assistant, Speech and Language Support Assistant, Psychology Graduate, Education Graduate, Support Worker, Youth Worker, or someone passionate about supporting children with additional needs, we would love to hear from you.

You will have opportunities for professional development and will support pupils in a range of settings, including:

- One-to-one support for pupils with communication and interaction needs

- Small group interventions focusing on speech, language, and social communication skills

- Classroom-based support to help pupils access learning and engage with lessons

- Communication-focused activities designed to develop confidence and independence

- Enrichment activities, social skills programmes, and wider school events

As a Speech and Language Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting pupils' communication development and overall wellbeing. You will work closely with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, families, and other professionals to deliver personalised support strategies that enable pupils to thrive in education.

Responsibilities:

- Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with communication and interaction needs

- Support the delivery of Speech and Language programmes designed by qualified professionals

- Encourage communication, social interaction, and engagement within the classroom

- Assist pupils in accessing the curriculum and participating fully in school life

- Monitor progress and provide feedback to teachers and specialist staff

- Support emotional regulation, confidence building, and positive behaviour strategies

- Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, SENCOs, and families

- Contribute to a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment

Qualifications and Skills:

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills

- Experience working with children or young people is desirable

- Interest in Speech and Language, SEN, SEND, Psychology, Education, or Child Development

- Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, families, and staff

- Patience, empathy, and a proactive approach

- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team

- Relevant qualifications in Education, Psychology, Health & Social Care, Childcare, or related fields are advantageous but not essential

What We Offer:

- Competitive daily pay rates

- A supportive and collaborative SEN school environment

- Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development

- Valuable experience for those considering careers in Speech and Language Therapy, Educational Psychology, Teaching, SEN, or Child Development

- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a nurturing and inclusive educational setting, supporting pupils to develop the communication skills, confidence, and independence they need to succeed.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection, and successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS.