Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)
REF: SENPLOY/193574
Education ⫽ SEN Teaching Assistant Jobs
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
£13.80 - £15 per hour dependant on experience
Temp to Perm, Full time
Desirable Skills
L2/3
Job description
Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)
Location: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
Contract Type: Full-Time | Temp to PermPurpose of the Role
Our Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting the education and development of pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD). You will be working as part of a skilled and collaborative team to deliver personalised learning, promote independence, and help pupils reach their full potential in a safe, caring, and inclusive environment.
Key Responsibilities
Provide one-to-one and small group learning support to pupils with SLD and PMLD.
Assist in implementing personalised learning programmes designed by teachers, therapists, and the SENCO.
Support the development of communication skills using tools such as Makaton, PECS, and visual aids.
Encourage pupils' social interaction, independence, and emotional development through positive engagement.
Promote inclusion and maintain a calm, safe, and supportive classroom environment.
Support with personal care and physical needs where appropriate, ensuring dignity and respect at all times.
Contribute to the wider life of the school through participation in enrichment activities, trips, and events.
Communicate effectively with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure consistency and continuity of support.
Maintain accurate records and follow safeguarding and behaviour management procedures.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Experience supporting children or young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), particularly SLD, PMLD, or ASD.
A compassionate, patient, and adaptable approach to supporting learning.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and inclusion.
Right to work in the UK (full-time).
Desirable Criteria
Experience within a special school or similar educational setting.
Training or knowledge of communication systems such as Makaton or PECS.
A relevant qualification in education, care, or child development (Level 2/3 Supporting Teaching and Learning).
About the School
The school is a welcoming, inclusive, and well-respected special school situated in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, serving pupils aged 3-19 with a range of complex learning needs including SLD and PMLD. Staff work collaboratively in a highly supportive environment where teamwork, creativity, and compassion are at the core of daily practice.
Working here means becoming part of a dedicated and passionate community that celebrates every pupil's individuality and achievement, no matter how small. The school's approach is rooted in personalised learning, therapeutic support, and nurturing relationships, creating an atmosphere where both pupils and staff can thrive.
Colleagues describe the school as a place where every day brings variety, laughter, and meaningful progress, supported by strong leadership, ongoing professional development, and a commitment to staff wellbeing.
Professional Development and Benefits
A supportive, collaborative team culture
Access to continuous professional development (CPD) and training in SEND practice
Opportunities for career progression within the school and wider network
A positive and rewarding workplace where every contribution makes a difference
Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities
The school and Inspire EHC are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants must hold or be willing to obtain an Enhanced DBS check and provide two professional references.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer, welcoming applications from all backgrounds and identities.
Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
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