SEND Teaching Assistant

SEND Teaching Assistant

Prospero Teaching is delighted to be working with a welcoming and supportive SEN School in Totton, Southampton, currently seeking SEND Teaching Assistant who are interested in transitioning into education or gaining experience in a specialist school setting.

This school provides tailored education for pupils aged 11-16 years with a range of complex needs, including ASC, PMLD, SLD, and other significant learning difficulties. The role is ideal for individuals with a healthcare, nursing, or care background who are compassionate, resilient, and eager to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and smallsupport for pupils with ASC, PMLD, SLD and a range of complex learning needs
• Assist pupils with personal care routines, mobility support, and practical daytasks in line with individual care plans
• Use alternative communication methods such as PECS, Makaton, or visual supports to aid understanding and engagement
• Support pupils during sensory activities, therapeutic interventions, and structured learning tasks
• Help maintain a safe, calm, and nurturing learning environment that promotes independence and positive behaviour
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other support staff to meet pupils holistic needs
• Contribute to the monitoring and recording of pupils progress, behaviour, and wellbeing
• Supervise pupils during break and lunch times, ensuring their safety and emotional wellbeing
• Participate in ongoing training and CPD to develop specialist skills relevant to complex needs education

Contract Details:

• Location: Totton, Southampton
• Position: SEND Teaching Assistant
• Type of Work: SEN Support
• Start Date: ASAP
• Duration: Temporary to Permanent
• Contract Type: Temporary to Permanent
• Hours: 8.45 am – 15.25pm
• Pay Rate: From £14.96 per hour

Experience, Training & Qualifications:

• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with complex needs
• Ability to adapt to varied situations and communication styles
• Comfortable assisting with personal care, mobility, and sensory needs
• Previous experience in healthcare, nursing, or care settings
• Knowledge of PECS, Makaton, or other communication systems (desirable)
• Understanding of SEND requirements (training provided if needed)

Requirements:

• Right to Work in the UK
• Enhanced child barred list DBS certificate (or willingness to apply)
• Two professional child-related references
• Full UK driving licence and access to a car (desirable but not essential)

What We Offer:

• Free, accredited CPD courses including safeguarding and behaviour management
• In-house Training and Development Team
• Supportive school environment with opportunities for career progression

If you are interested in this role, please apply with an up-to-date CV. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Prospero Teaching acts as an employment business/education recruitment agency in relation to this vacancy.

Proud to be listed in the Times as one of ‘The Best Companies To Work For’, Prospero Teaching is an innovative and forward-thinking recruitment agency. With over two decades of experience, our education consultants work hard to find you the most suitable role, from a wide range of teaching jobs across the UK, in thousands of excellent schools, academies, and nurseries. We are an APSCO-audited education agency, and our awards for excellence demonstrate our commitment to high-quality service and best practice.