SEN Communication & Sensory Assistant

SEN Communication & Sensory 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 schools across Leeds, dedicated to supporting learners with diverse needs through innovative, individualised education.

These schools follow a pathway-based learning model, tailoring teaching to each learner's abilities, communication styles, and developmental goals. Every student's journey is guided by their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), ensuring the right support is in place for meaningful progress.

For learners on the Communication Pathway, success is celebrated through photos, observations, family feedback, and regular updates to electronic assessment records - reflecting every achievement, big or small.

They're now seeking SEN Communication and Sensory Assistants to join their dedicated teams. You'll work within a non-subject-specific, multi-sensory curriculum designed to build communication, engagement, and independence. Your work will help learners develop their social interaction skills, express themselves, and connect with the world around them.

Teaching and learning in this pathway are highly structured and predictable - creating a calm, supportive environment where learners can grow in confidence, make choices, and develop both 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.

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