SEN Teaching Assistant - Stoke New

Job Title: SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Stoke-on-Trent
Start Date: After May Half-Term (June 2026)
Contract Type: Full-Time, Temporary (Until Christmas 2026, with potential extension)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

An inclusive and supportive SEN school based in Stoke-on-Trent is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join their team after the May half-term, with the role continuing until Christmas and the possibility of extension. This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with a range of special educational needs, helping them to access learning, develop independence, and achieve their full potential in a nurturing environment.

You will work closely with class teachers and the wider support team to provide tailored support to pupils, both on a one-to-one basis and in small groups. The school caters for children with a variety of needs, which may include autism (ASC), ADHD, speech and language difficulties, and social, emotional, and mental health needs (SEMH).

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with SEN, adapting approaches to meet individual needs
• Assist in the delivery of personalised learning programmes set by the class teacher and SENCO
• Support pupils’ academic, social, and emotional development
• Help manage behaviour using positive behaviour support strategies in line with school policies
• Assist in creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment
• Support communication and interaction, including the use of visual aids or alternative communication methods where required
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other professionals within the school
• Monitor and record pupil progress, providing feedback to the class teacher
• Support personal care needs if required (full training provided where applicable)
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed at all times

• Previous experience working with children or young people with special educational needs (school-based or similar setting)
• A patient, empathetic, and resilient approach
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build positive relationships with pupils, staff, and parents
• Understanding of different SEN needs, particularly ASC, SEMH, or communication difficulties
• Ability to remain calm and adaptable in a dynamic environment
• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs

• Experience working within an SEN school or specialist setting
• Knowledge of behaviour management strategies such as Team Teach or similar approaches
• Experience supporting non-verbal pupils or using communication tools such as PECS or Makaton
• Relevant qualifications (e.g., Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant, CACHE, or equivalent)

• A welcoming and inclusive school environment with a strong team ethos
• Ongoing support from experienced staff and leadership
• Opportunities for training and professional development in SEN practices
• A rewarding role making a genuine difference in pupils’ lives
• Potential for the role to be extended beyond the initial contract

This is an excellent opportunity for a committed SEN Teaching Assistant looking to gain valuable experience in a specialist setting while positively impacting the development and wellbeing of pupils with additional needs.