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- Tasks: Support children with complex needs through creative and sensory-based learning.
- Company: GSL Education, a supportive specialist SEN school in Darlington.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, additional training, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and help children thrive in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN, patience, and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Potential for permanent roles and excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 19000 - 23000 £ per year.
Location: Redcar
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.
Creative Teaching Assistants in Redcar employer: GSL Education
Contact Detail:
GSL Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Creative Teaching Assistants in Redcar
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education or SEN settings. Let them know you're on the lookout for Creative Teaching Assistant roles. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty! Volunteer or shadow in schools, especially those with SEN provisions. This not only boosts your experience but also shows potential employers your commitment and passion for making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN support. Think about how you would handle challenging behaviours or support sensory learning. We want you to shine and show off your skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re here to help you every step of the way in landing that perfect role!
We think you need these skills to ace Creative Teaching Assistants in Redcar
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with complex needs shine through. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your dedication and resilience in similar roles.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience with SEN, behaviours that challenge, and any creative approaches you've used in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. This will help us understand your qualifications and experiences without getting lost in unnecessary details.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board as soon as possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at GSL Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Creative Teaching Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with SEN and the strategies used to support them. This will show your passion and commitment to making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children or young people with complex needs. Share specific examples of how you've used positive behaviour support or sensory activities in the past. This will help the interviewers see how you can contribute to their team.
✨Demonstrate Your Approach
During the interview, highlight your calm and patient approach. You might be asked how you would handle challenging behaviours, so prepare some scenarios where you've successfully managed similar situations. This will illustrate your resilience and ability to maintain a safe learning environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting pupils with SEN or how they implement creative learning strategies. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
