About the Role
We are seeking a caring, patient and enthusiastic SEND Teaching Assistant to join a supportive school in the Sheffield S8 area. The successful candidate will have experience working with children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), particularly those with Autism, Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), and ADHD.
You will work closely with teachers and other professionals to provide tailored support that enables pupils to access learning, develop independence and build positive relationships within the school environment.
Key Responsibilities
Provide one-to-one and small-group support to pupils with a range of SEND needs.
Support children with Autism, PMLD and ADHD in accessing the curriculum and participating in school activities.
Implement individual learning plans and support strategies under the direction of teaching staff and SEND professionals.
Use appropriate communication strategies, including visual supports, communication aids and other alternative methods where required.
Support pupils with their social, emotional and behavioural development.
Promote independence, confidence and positive engagement with learning.
Assist with personal care, mobility and other practical needs where required.
Support pupils with sensory needs and help create a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment.
Recognise and respond appropriately to individual behaviours and triggers.
Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, parents/carers and other professionals.
Monitor pupils' progress and provide feedback to teaching staff.
Follow safeguarding, health and safety and school policies at all times.
About You
The ideal candidate will:
Have previous experience working with children or young people with SEND.
Have specific experience supporting children with Autism, PMLD and/or ADHD.
Be patient, compassionate and able to build trusting relationships with pupils.
Have a good understanding of individualised support and inclusive education.
Be confident managing challenging or distressed behaviour using positive and appropriate strategies.
Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Be able to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Be adaptable, resilient and willing to learn.
Have a genuine commitment to supporting children to reach their full potential.
Desirable Experience
Experience with any of the following would be advantageous:
PECS, Makaton or other communication systems.
Sensory processing needs.
Complex learning difficulties.
Behaviour support and positive behaviour strategies.
Personal care and mobility support.
Working within a specialist SEND setting.
Working alongside Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists or other external professionals.
What We Offer
A supportive and inclusive school environment.
The opportunity to make a genuine difference to children's lives.
Ongoing professional development and training.
Support from experienced teaching and SEND staff.
A rewarding role with opportunities to develop your career within education and SEND.
If you are passionate about supporting children with additional needs and have the patience, empathy and experience to help pupils thrive, we would love to hear from you.
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