Posted: 17 June
The role
SEN Teaching Assistant : Fleetwood GBP 100/day (Sept Start)
Location: Fleetwood, Lancashire
Contract: Temporary, Term Time Only; Duration: September : December; Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM : 3:30 PM
About the Role
A welcoming primary school in Fleetwood is seeking a skilled SEN Teaching Assistant to join their specialised SEN unit from September through to December. This unique unit supports a wonderful group of mixed age children who, while sharing a similar cognitive ability, navigate a diverse range of challenges including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), non verbal communication barriers, and wider SEND.
Please note: due to the specialised nature of this unit, this role requires a professional with prior qualified TA experience or strong, referenceable experience supporting complex needs within a mainstream 1:1 role, an SEN TA position, a specialist school setting, or a professional care background.
What Makes This Unit Special?
Unlike mainstream classrooms or some fragmented SEN support roles, this unit is a cohesive environment. Because the children function at a similar cognitive level, the learning framework is unified. However, the way they access that learning varies dramatically. Your day to day will be dynamic, requiring you to pivot your approach based on each childs specific sensory, emotional, and communication profile.
The Skills You Will Need to Thrive Alternative Communication Expertise : Skilled in or knowledgeable of communication tools such as PECS, Makaton, or AAC devices and able to read non verbal cues and body language. De escalation and Positive Behaviour Support : Understanding the root cause of behaviours that challenge, equipped with a toolkit of positive behaviour management strategies, a calm demeanour under pressure, and ideally training such as Team Teach. Sensory Regulation Awareness : Knowing when a child requires sensory breaks, how to utilise sensory rooms or tools effectively, and spotting signs of sensory overload before a melt down occurs. Adaptability and High Emotional Intelligence : Read the room instantly, providing emotional scaffolding as needed and maintaining empathy, patience, and resilience. Collaborative Spirit : Working closely with the Unit Lead, speech and language therapists, and parents with clear, professional communication and accurate record keeping of student progress. Requirements Prior qualified TA experience or solid, referenceable experience from a mainstream 1:1 role, an SEN TA position, a specialist setting, or a professional care background. Proven experience working with children with ASD, non verbal needs, or complex SEND. A patient, nurturing, and robust personality. Robust understanding of safeguarding procedures within a school environment. Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness for a new one).
