Job: Creative Teaching assistants Location: Darlington Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:00pm (Term Time Only) Start Date: Immediate Pay Rate: £95 – £115 per day (depending on experience) GSL Education are currently recruiting dedicated, resilient, and Creative Teaching Assistants to work in a specialist SEN school in Darlington. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with experience in education, care, or support settings who are passionate about making a meaningful difference to children with complex needs. The school supports pupils with autism, learning disabilities, communication difficulties, sensory processing needs, and behaviours that challenge. A calm, patient, and consistent approach is essential. For the right candidates, there is potential for these roles to become permanent. The Role As a Creative Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils both academically and emotionally through structured routines, sensory-based learning, and creative approaches such as messy play and hands-on activities. Some pupils may display behaviours that challenge as a form of communication. You will respond using positive behaviour support, de-escalation strategies, and a trauma-informed approach, working closely with teachers, SENCOs, and other professionals to follow individual education and behaviour plans. Key Responsibilities Providing 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEN and complex needs Supporting pupils with behaviours that challenge, including emotional regulation and transitions Using positive behaviour support and de-escalation strategies Supporting sensory-based learning, including messy play and tactile activities Encouraging engagement through creative play, movement, and exploratory learning Supporting communication using verbal and non-verbal methods, visual timetables, and symbols Supporting personal care when required, including toileting and hygiene Promoting independence, confidence, and positive social interactions Observing, recording, and reporting progress and behaviour Working collaboratively with teachers and support staff Maintaining a calm, safe, and inclusive learning environment Essential Requirements Experience supporting children or young people with Special Educational Needs Experience working with behaviours that challenge A patient, calm, and resilient approach Understanding of person-centred care and positive behaviour support Confidence delivering sensory activities and messy play Willingness to support personal care when required Strong communication and teamwork skills Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with pupils DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to apply Desirable (Not Essential) Experience working in a specialist SEN school, SEMH setting, or PRU Knowledge of autism spectrum conditions Experience using Makaton, PECS, or visual communication systems Behaviour management training (Team Teach, MAPA) Background in care, youth work, psychology, or early years Why Apply? Competitive daily pay based on experience Supportive and specialist school environment Opportunity to make a genuine, positive impact on children with complex needs A consultant to support you on your journey Additional training courses Apply today or email to discuss this role and other available opportunities.