Job Description
Job Title
Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)
School Type
Special School
Age Range of Pupils
4 to 19 years
Location
School‑based – Shirley (B90)
Contract Type
Long-term, Day to day cover, Term-time only
Job Purpose
The Special Needs Teaching Assistant will support the learning, wellbeing, communication, and personal development of children and young people with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and associated needs. The role focuses on enabling pupils to access education safely and meaningfully, promoting emotional regulation, communication, and independence within a structured, nurturing, and sensory‑informed environment.
Key Responsibilities
Teaching & Learning Support
Support pupils aged 4–19 with Autism, including those with:
Behaviour that challenges
Sensory processing difficulties
Emotional dysregulation
Non‑verbal or minimally verbal communication needs
Deliver targeted 1:1 and small‑group support under the direction of the class teacher
Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), EHCP outcomes, and personalised learning programmes
Support pupils to engage with learning activities using structured approaches (e.g. visual supports, clear routines)
Person Requirements
Experience of working with children or young people with Autism and/or additional needs
Understanding of sensory processing, emotional regulation, and behaviour that challenges
Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent in demanding situations
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Commitment to inclusive education and pupil wellbeing
Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you)
Two satisfactory references covering a minimum of 12 months
What New Directions Education Ltd offers:
1. A dedicated and expert Account Manager
2. Regular and varied supply work
3. Competitive rates of pay
4. Potential long-term roles
5. Full compliance with the Agency Workers Regulation (AWR)
6. A network of branches across the UK
7. One of the preferred suppliers to all 22 local authorities in Wales under the All Wales Framework Agreement
8. We are the major teaching supply agency for Welsh speaking teachers across Wales
9. Recommend-a-friend scheme
10. Respected reputation across the education and recruitment industry
We are fully committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. All applicants must undertake a full enhanced DBS check.
Please select Apply Now to enquire about this job vacancy with New Directions Education Ltd, Birmingham branch.
New Directions Education Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.