SEND Teaching Assistant

SEND Teaching Assistant (EYFS Background Preferred)

Location: Leeds
Contract: Full-Time, Long-Term
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: £21,500 - £23,300 per annum

Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant with an EYFS background and a passion for supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)?

NextGen Teachers are recruiting on behalf of a welcoming all-through SEN school in Leeds, which supports pupils from primary through to secondary age with a wide range of complex learning needs.

The school is looking to appoint a dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to join their team from September 2026. While the school supports learners of all ages, they are particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience in Early Years, as many of the pupils benefit from EYFS approaches, play-based learning and early developmental support, regardless of their chronological age.

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a highly supportive staff team, working alongside experienced teachers and therapists to help pupils achieve their full potential. The school is keen to trial suitable candidates over the coming weeks, giving you the opportunity to secure your role ahead of the new academic year.

The Role

As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support pupils with a range of complex SEND needs throughout the school day.

• Use EYFS principles and child-centred approaches to encourage learning, communication and development.

• Work alongside class teachers to deliver engaging, inclusive and personalised learning experiences.

• Provide support within the classroom, in small groups and occasionally on a one-to-one basis where required.

• Adapt learning activities and resources to meet the individual developmental needs of pupils.

• Encourage communication, independence, emotional regulation and positive engagement in learning.

• Promote positive behaviour and implement individual support strategies where appropriate.

• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils, staff and families.

• Monitor pupil progress and provide feedback to teaching staff to support ongoing development.

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Has previous experience working in an EYFS setting, nursery, reception class or similar early years environment.

• Has experience supporting children or young people with SEND in a school, care or specialist setting, or is eager to transfer their Early Years skills into specialist education.

• Understands child development and enjoys using play-based and sensory learning approaches.

• Has experience working with pupils with Autism, complex learning difficulties, communication needs or associated additional needs.

• Is patient, resilient and able to remain calm in challenging situations.

• Has excellent communication and teamwork skills.

• Is proactive, nurturing and passionate about helping every pupil succeed.

• Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

What's on Offer?

• Full-time, long-term role starting in September 2026.

• Opportunity to trial with the school before the summer break.

• Work within a well-established and supportive all-through specialist SEN school.

• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

• A collaborative team environment where your contribution is valued.

• The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND.

Apply Today

If you have an Early Years background and are looking to use your skills to support children and young people with additional needs in a rewarding specialist setting, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply directly to this advert or send your CV to charlotte@nextgenteachers.co.uk for immediate consideration.

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