At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with profound learning difficulties in a nurturing, sensory-based environment.
- Company: Specialist SEND school in Orpington dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a multidisciplinary team in a purpose-built, therapeutic learning environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable learners every day.
- Qualifications: Experience with PMLD or complex SEND needs and a passion for inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a compassionate and dedicated Teaching Assistant with a passion for supporting children and young people with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)? We are recruiting for an exceptional PMLD Teaching Assistant to join a highly supportive and well-established specialist SEND school in Orpington. This is a rewarding opportunity to work within a nurturing, multidisciplinary environment where pupils with complex learning, physical, medical, and communication needs are supported to thrive both academically and personally.
The school caters for pupils aged 4–19 with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties, including autism spectrum conditions, physical disabilities, sensory impairments, and medical needs. The setting is recognised for its child‑centred ethos, specialist facilities, therapeutic provision, and commitment to helping every pupil develop independence, communication, and life skills through highly personalised learning experiences.
The School Offers:
- Purpose-built sensory and therapeutic learning environments
- Hydrotherapy and sensory integration facilities
- Specialist communication support including AAC
- A strong multidisciplinary team including therapists and healthcare professionals
- Small class sizes with high staff-to-pupil ratios
- A holistic curriculum tailored to individual EHCP outcomes
- A strong emphasis on emotional wellbeing, sensory regulation, and independence development
Key Responsibilities
Classroom and Learning Support
- Support the delivery of personalised, sensory-based learning activities
- Assist with implementing individual EHCP targets
- Encourage engagement through sensory storytelling, tactile activities, music, movement, and interactive learning
- Adapt support strategies to meet individual physical, sensory, and communication needs
Holistic Pupil Support
- Promote communication, independence, emotional regulation, and social interaction
- Support pupils with personal care, mobility, feeding, and physical needs where required
- Help create a calm, structured, and nurturing classroom environment
- Support pupils with medical and physical needs under guidance from trained staff
Communication and SEND Support Strategies
- Use and support communication systems including: PECS, Makaton, AAC devices, Intensive Interaction, Visual timetables and sensory cues
- Support pupils’ expressive and receptive communication development through consistent use of these approaches
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Work closely with class teachers, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Medical staff, SENCOs and pastoral teams
- Ensure consistency in support strategies across all areas of pupil development
Monitoring and Progress Support
- Observe, record, and report pupil progress and achievements
- Support evidence gathering for EHCP reviews and assessments
Family and Carer Engagement
- Contribute to positive communication with parents and carers
- Share relevant observations regarding pupil progress and wellbeing
- Support consistency between school and home-based strategies
What We’re Looking For
- Experience supporting children or young people with PMLD, SLD, ASD, or complex SEND needs
- A patient, nurturing, and flexible approach
- Understanding of sensory-based learning approaches
- Experience supporting pupils with physical disabilities and/or complex medical needs (desirable)
- Knowledge of Makaton, PECS, AAC, or Intensive Interaction (desirable)
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- A genuine passion for inclusive education and supporting vulnerable learners
- Experience in specialist schools, SEND provisions, care settings, or therapeutic environments would be highly advantageous
PMLD Teaching Assistant in Bromley employer: Engage Partners Limited
Join our dedicated team at a specialist SEND school in Orpington, where we prioritise a nurturing and inclusive work culture that empowers both staff and pupils. With competitive salaries, small class sizes, and a strong emphasis on professional development, we offer a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with profound and multiple learning difficulties. Our purpose-built facilities and collaborative environment ensure that you will thrive as part of a multidisciplinary team committed to fostering independence and emotional wellbeing in every pupil.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PMLD Teaching Assistant in Bromley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you a heads-up on what schools are looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to PMLD and SEND. This not only boosts your knowledge but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for inclusive education.
✨Tip Number 3
When you land an interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported children with PMLD or similar needs. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We have a range of roles that could be perfect for you, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm for joining our team. Plus, it makes it easier for us to spot your application!
We think you need these skills to ace PMLD Teaching Assistant in Bromley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with PMLD shine through. Share personal experiences or motivations that led you to this field, as we love to see genuine enthusiasm for inclusive education.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in sensory-based learning and communication strategies.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Engage Partners Limited
✨Know Your PMLD Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). Understand the specific needs of children with PMLD and how sensory-based learning approaches can be applied. This will show your passion and commitment to supporting these learners.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children or young people with complex SEND needs. Share specific examples of how you've supported their learning and development, particularly in a multidisciplinary environment. This will help demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face as a PMLD Teaching Assistant. Prepare to discuss how you would handle situations involving personal care, communication support, or adapting learning activities. This practical insight will highlight your readiness for the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
During the interview, make sure to engage with your interviewers. Ask questions about the school's approach to supporting pupils with PMLD and how they implement sensory integration strategies. This shows your genuine interest in the school and its ethos.
