Special Needs Teaching Assistant

Special Needs Teaching 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 be partnering with a specialist SEN school in Leeds that is dedicated to supporting and empowering learners with diverse needs. The school is now seeking an experienced and passionate professional to join their team.

This school follows a pathway-based learning model, ensuring every learner receives an education tailored to their individual abilities, communication preferences, and developmental goals.

Within the Towards Independence Pathway, learners follow an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and access a highly personalised programme designed to build independence both in school and in the wider community. This pathway offers a balanced curriculum that blends academic learning, vocational experiences, and community engagement.

As an Independence Support Assistant, you'll play an integral role in delivering and supporting structured, semi-formal teaching approaches. You'll help lead engaging sessions such as Maths for Life and Life Skills, empowering learners with the practical knowledge, confidence, and independence to thrive in everyday situations.

Learners on this pathway typically have the cognitive skills to engage with semi-formal learning, make informed choices, and maintain shared attention - enabling them to make meaningful progress towards independence and self-sufficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Support learners who have complex needs
• 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 strategies such as project-based learning, Lego Therapy and visuals to support teaching
• 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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