At a Glance
- Tasks: Support SEND pupils with Autism in a specialist classroom and across the school.
- Company: Deepdale Community Primary School, a welcoming and inclusive environment.
- Benefits: Permanent position, term-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.
- Qualifications: Experience with Autism/ASD and a passion for supporting diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 29000 € per year.
The Governors of Deepdale Community Primary School are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant (Level 3) to support the individual learning needs of SEND pupils in a specialist classroom and also across the school. The successful candidate will work with pupils with Autism/ASD in the specialist class under the guidance of the class teacher and other professional agencies in a collaborative way. This is a permanent position.
Location: Deepdale Community Primary School, St Stephen’s Road, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 6TD (676 on roll). Tel: 01772 795586. School website: www.deepdalecommunityprimary.co.uk.
Grade: 6 (SCP 11‑19) 32.5 hours per week, Term time.
Responsibilities:
- Demonstrate experience of working with children with Autism/ASD.
- Collaborate with the class teacher and teaching assistants to establish an appropriate learning environment for pupils who require a curriculum that focuses upon early development skills.
- Learn to use gesture, symbols and pictures, real objects and basic Makaton signs to support language understanding.
- Learn how to be ‘the most interesting thing in the room’ and use high‑impact light‑up and noisy toys to gain the attention of pupils with Autism.
- Learn about sensory regulation and support an environment suitable for pupils with sensory regulation needs.
- Implement targeted learning plans and agreed learning activities/teaching programmes, adjusting activities according to the pupils’ responses/needs.
- Maintain a patient, positive and caring attitude.
- Work as part of a team.
- Commit to developing professional skills.
Qualifications: You must complete the application form attached on the Lancashire Schools Vacancy Website.
Key Dates:
- Closing date: Monday 8th June 2026 at 9am
- Interview: TBC
- Start date: 1st September 2026
Equal Opportunities Statement: Deepdale Community Primary School is an Equal Opportunities Employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community. We are a Disability Confident employer and will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria in the person specification.
The post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). If successful you will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a ‘disclosure’. Information provided by you or the DBS will be dealt with confidentially in accordance with the DBS code of practice.
Safeguarding: We are strongly committed to safeguarding and promoting the safety of children. We undertake a rigorous vetting procedure and will carry out an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
SEND TEACHING ASSISTANT LEVEL 3 employer: Lancashire County Council
Deepdale Community Primary School is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong commitment to professional development, the school offers numerous opportunities for growth while prioritising the well-being of both employees and students. Located in Preston, Lancashire, the school promotes a collaborative culture where teaching assistants can thrive and make a meaningful impact on the lives of SEND pupils.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND TEACHING ASSISTANT LEVEL 3
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Deepdale Community Primary School and understand their values, especially around SEND. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your responses! Think about how your experience with children with Autism/ASD aligns with the role. Prepare examples that highlight your skills in creating engaging learning environments and supporting sensory regulation.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff if you can! They can provide insights into the school's culture and what they value in a SEND Teaching Assistant. Plus, it might give you a leg up when it comes to references.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets to the right people. Don’t forget to showcase your passion for working with SEND pupils in your application!
We think you need these skills to ace SEND TEACHING ASSISTANT LEVEL 3
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with SEND 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 with children with Autism/ASD. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on those details!
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 understand and directly related to the job.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancashire County Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge about Autism/ASD and how it affects learning. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used in the past to support SEND pupils, as this will show your understanding and commitment to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since you'll be working closely with teachers and other professionals, highlight any experience you have in teamwork. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles to create a positive learning environment.
✨Get Hands-On with Communication Techniques
Familiarise yourself with Makaton signs and other communication aids mentioned in the job description. During the interview, demonstrate your willingness to learn and adapt these techniques to engage with pupils effectively.
✨Exude Positivity and Patience
Your attitude is key! Be prepared to discuss how you maintain a positive and patient approach when working with children who have special educational needs. Share anecdotes that reflect your caring nature and ability to handle challenging situations.
