Communication and Sensory Support Assistant

Communication and Sensory Support Assistant

Location: Leeds

Contract: Temporary to permanent (term time only). Monday to Friday (8:30-3:30)

Start date: ASAP

Salary: £90 - £95 per day (dependant on experience)

About the Role

NextGen Teachers are proud to partner with a network of Specialist SEN (Special Educational Needs) schools across Leeds, who are seeking experienced and dedicated professionals to join their teams.

These schools follow a pathway-based learning model, ensuring every learner benefits from teaching strategies that are tailored to their unique abilities, communication styles and developmental needs.

Each learner with additional needs follows an individualised programme of support, guided by their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). For learners accessing the Communication Pathway, progress is captured through a range of evidence - including photographs, observations, parent communication, and regular updates to electronic assessment records. The expertise, insight and commitment of the professionals surrounding each learner play a vital role in helping them reach their full potential.

They are currently seeking Communication and Sensory Support Assistants to work within a non-subject-specific curriculum designed to nurture communication, engagement, and independence. This approach focuses on developing learners' communication skills, social interaction, and participation both in and beyond the classroom, creating meaningful opportunities for growth and connection every day.

Teaching and learning is highly structured within this pathway, and learners expect predictable routines. This fosters an environment where learners can develop their choice making skills, express preferences and build receptive and expressive language skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Support learners who have complex needs such as Profound and Multiple Learning disabilities (PLMD) and who may be non-verbal
• Contribute to the focus on developing communication by following EHCP targets and implementing the appropriate strategies
• Work as part of a team where there is likely to be a high staff to learner ratio
• Use visual communication supports such as symbols, Makaton and objects of reference
• Support learners who require in-depth emotional development skills in order for them to express their feelings and learn to co and self regulate using positive behaviours
• Provide sensory support where necessary, which might include sensory circuits
  
  

Requirements

• Previous experience of working with learners who have complex SEN needs
• Previous experience of providing personal care
• Patience, empathy, and strong positive behaviour management skills
• Willingness to contribute to offsite experiences
• A genuine passion for helping learners reach their potential
• Understanding of safeguarding practices and accurate record-keeping procedures
• Team Teach trained (or willingness to complete training)
• Enhanced DBS (on the Update Service or willingness to apply)
• Minimum Grade C/4 in GCSE English, Maths, and Science

If you meet the above requirements and are eager to contribute to the safe, happy environment that supports the learning of every student, please email your CV to charlotte@nextgenteachers.co.uk, or apply directly to this advert.

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this role.