At a Glance
- Tasks: Support neurodiverse pupils with 1:1 and small-group assistance in a vibrant primary school.
- Company: Heather Garth Primary Academy, a welcoming and inclusive community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for permanent position and commitment to staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in education.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND or neurodiverse learners; Positive Handling training is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 25583 - 25989 £ per year.
Location: Heather Garth Primary Academy, Billingley View, Bolton Upon Dearne, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S63 8ES
Contract Type: Temporary Fixed-Term. There may be an opportunity for the post to become permanent, subject to staffing needs and funding.
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: Grade 3 £25583 - £25989 (pro rata) plus additional hours for breakfast club
Hours: 30 hrs Per Week + additional breakfast club support – Term Time Only
Working Pattern: 8.30am – 3.10pm with an occasional 7:30am start required to support Breakfast Club provision.
About Heather Garth Primary Academy: Heather Garth Primary Academy is seeking to appoint a caring, patient and committed SEND Teaching Assistant to support neurodiverse pupils within our inclusive primary school. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual who is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and enabling every pupil to thrive academically, socially and emotionally. The successful candidate will work closely with the classteacher, SENDCo and wider staff team to support pupils with a range of needs including autism, ADHD, speech and language needs, sensory differences and social communication difficulties. Experience supporting pupils with complex needs and training in Positive Handling (or willingness to undertake training) is highly desirable.
This is a temporary position offered on a fixed-term basis. There may be an opportunity for the post to become permanent, subject to staffing needs and funding.
Responsibilities:
- Provide 1:1 and small-group support for neurodiverse pupils
- Support communication, emotional regulation and learning development
- Implement behaviour support strategies and individual plans
- Promote independence, wellbeing and inclusion
- Use de-escalation strategies and safe positive handling techniques where appropriate
- Support pupils during transitions, playtimes and structured learning
- Occasionally support the school’s Breakfast Club from 7:30am
What We Are Looking For:
- Has experience working with children with SEND or neurodiverse learners
- Is Positive Handling trained or willing to complete training
- Demonstrates patience, empathy and resilience
- Can build strong, supportive relationships with pupils
- Works effectively as part of a team
- Is committed to safeguarding and inclusive practice
We Offer:
- A welcoming and supportive school community
- Training opportunities including Positive Handling where required
- A collaborative and experienced staff team
- Enthusiastic and friendly pupils
- Commitment to staff wellbeing and professional development
Visits to the school are warmly welcomed.
Please email for an application pack to g.slater@heathergarth.org. Packs can also be downloaded from the school website www.heathergarth.org.
Closing Date: 4th June 2026
Interview Date: 12th June 2026
Heather Garth Primary Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and safer recruitment procedures.
SEND Teaching Assistant in Rotherham employer: Heather Garth Primary School Academy
Heather Garth Primary Academy is an excellent employer that fosters a nurturing and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a strong commitment to professional development, the academy offers training opportunities such as Positive Handling, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to support neurodiverse pupils effectively. Located in the welcoming community of Bolton Upon Dearne, the school promotes a collaborative work culture where dedicated individuals can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the lives of children with additional needs.
Contact Details:
Heather Garth Primary School Academy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Teaching Assistant in Rotherham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education, especially those who work with SEND. They might know about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND support. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role at Heather Garth Primary Academy.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know why supporting neurodiverse pupils is important to you. Your enthusiasm can really make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen and shows you’re serious about joining the team at Heather Garth.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Teaching Assistant in Rotherham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting neurodiverse pupils shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have working with SEND or neurodiverse learners. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to spot. A well-structured application goes a long way!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the info you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heather Garth Primary School Academy
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a SEND Teaching Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of neurodiverse pupils and the strategies used to support them. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss any previous experience you have working with children with SEND or neurodiverse learners. Share specific examples of how you've supported their learning and emotional needs, as this will demonstrate your capability and understanding.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with teachers and other staff members. Discuss how you can contribute to a supportive environment for both pupils and colleagues, as teamwork is crucial in an inclusive setting.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations involving pupils with complex needs. Think through some scenarios in advance, such as managing challenging behaviour or supporting a child during transitions, and be ready to share your approach.
