Job description
Job Title: Male SEN Teaching Assistant Location: Stoke-on-Trent
Contract Type: Full-Time, Monday to Friday (Temp to Perm)
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Essential Requirements: Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle
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About the Role
We are currently seeking a dedicated, experienced, and resilient Male SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist provision within a mainstream school in Stoke-on-Trent. This is a full-time, long-term position with the opportunity to become permanent for the right candidate. The role involves working closely with children who have a range of complex Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including:
* Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties
* Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
* Trauma-related behavioural and emotional needs
* Associated communication and sensory needs
You will be working alongside a team of experienced professionals in a nurturing and structured environment to support the learning, development, and wellbeing of pupils who require consistent, compassionate, and firm boundaries.
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Key Responsibilities
* Provide tailored support to children with complex needs in a 1:1 or small group setting
* Foster trusting, respectful relationships that promote emotional regulation and positive behaviour
* Implement structured behaviour management strategies, including de-escalation and, where appropriate, physical intervention (training preferred)
* Assist with daily routines, academic support, personal care (where needed), and pastoral needs
* Collaborate closely with SENCOs, teachers, therapists, and external professionals
* Monitor and report on pupil progress and incidents
* Promote inclusion, independence, and a safe learning environment
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Essential Criteria
* Extensive experience supporting children with SEMH, autism, trauma, and complex needs - particularly in a school or specialist setting
* Understanding of attachment disorders, ACEs, and trauma-informed practice
* Experience with positive behaviour management and willingness to engage in physical intervention where necessary (Team Teach, MAPA or similar is highly desirable)
* A calm, consistent, and empathetic approach, able to handle challenging situations professionally
* Full UK driving licence and access to your own reliable vehicle - due to the location and potential for supporting transport needs
* Fully enhanced DBS (on the Update Service or willingness to apply)
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Desirable Qualifications & Skills
* Relevant Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or Childcare Qualification
* Team Teach, PRICE, or similar physical intervention training
* Mental Health First Aid or trauma-informed care training
* First Aid qualification
* Experience in a PRU, EBD, or alternative provision is an advantage
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What We Offer
* Competitive daily rates and potential for a permanent position
* Supportive and experienced leadership team
* Opportunities for professional development and specialist training
* A rewarding role making a real difference to children's lives
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This is a physically and emotionally demanding role that requires genuine passion, resilience, and dedication. If you are an experienced, calm, and committed male SEN Teaching Assistant ready for a new challenge in a rewarding setting - we want to hear from you!
📧 To apply, please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your suitability.