Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant

Description:

New Directions Education are seeking dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistants to join our pool of support staff working across Post 16, SEN Provisions in Leeds.

This rewarding role is perfect for individuals who are passionate about learners with additional needs develop key life skills.

About the Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital part in supporting learners with a variety of additional needs, including Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).

You’ll work alongside teachers and therapists to create inclusive, supportive environments that promote independence, communication, and personal growth.

You will:

* Support pupils both 1:1 and in small groups, helping them engage in learning and develop essential life and social skills.

* Encourage learners to take gradual responsibility for their own learning, self-care, and decision-making.

* Help implement structured routines and activities that prepare learners for life beyond school whether that’s further education, employment, or independent living.

We are looking for individuals who are:

* Experienced in supporting learners with SEN, particularly SLCN and/or ASC.

* Passionate about promoting independence and life skills for learners.

* Patient, empathetic, and skilled in supporting emotional regulation and communication.

* Confident in using or willing to learn Makaton, PECS, or other symbol-based communication systems.

* Team players who can work closely with teachers, therapists, and families.

* Trained in Team-Teach or other therapeutic behaviour approaches (desirable but not essential).

Key Responsibilities

* Apply strategies that build confidence, communication, and independence.

* Support learners in developing practical and social skills for everyday life.

* Use symbols, Makaton, and objects of reference to reinforce understanding.

* Prioritise the wellbeing, safety, and personal development of every learner