EYFS / SEN / ARP Teaching Assistant in Stevenage

Location: Stevenage, Hertfordshire

Role Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only

Salary: £21,000 – £24,500 FTE

Start Date: ASAP

About the School

Our primary school in Stevenage is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistant to work in both EYFS and SEN/ARP provision. We support children aged 3–11 years with a wide range of abilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning delays, and social-emotional challenges. The school prides itself on inclusive education, offering a welcoming and stimulating environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We have specialist ARP (Additional Resource Provision) classrooms and experienced staff who collaborate closely with therapists, SEN specialists, and families to meet individual needs. As part of our team, you will contribute to enhancing children’s learning experiences, ensuring they develop confidence, independence, and essential life skills while achieving their academic potential.

Role Overview

The school is looking for a patient, creative, and adaptable Teaching Assistant to join the EYFS and SEN team. Your primary focus will be providing one-to-one and small group support for pupils with additional needs, alongside assisting classroom teachers in lesson delivery, behaviour management, and learning resource preparation. You will play a key role in supporting children transitioning between mainstream and ARP settings, implementing tailored learning strategies, and promoting positive behaviour and wellbeing. This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about early years education, inclusive practice, and SEND support.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils in EYFS, KS1, and ARP settings, including children with SEN or developmental delays
• Implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and behaviour support plans, monitoring progress and providing feedback
• Deliver small group and one-to-one interventions in literacy, numeracy, speech and language, and social skills
• Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities, including playtime, lunchtime, and transitions
• Encourage positive behaviour, self-regulation, and emotional resilience using restorative strategies
• Collaborate with teachers, SENCo, therapists, and parents to support holistic learning and development
• Assist with classroom organisation, resource preparation, and maintaining a safe learning environment
• Observe and document pupil progress for reporting and planning purposes
• Support children transitioning from mainstream to ARP classrooms, helping them adjust socially and academically
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development initiatives

Person Specification

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience in EYFS or primary settings, preferably with children who have SEN or additional needs
• Hold relevant qualifications such as Level 2/3 TA, NCFE Support Work in Schools, CACHE, or equivalent
• Demonstrate patience, empathy, creativity, and resilience in working with children of all abilities
• Be confident in observing, recording, and assessing child development
• Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills for working with children, staff, and parents
• Understand safeguarding procedures and comply with child protection policies
• Be adaptable, flexible, and able to respond positively to the changing needs of pupils and the classroom environment

Training and Development Opportunities

We provide comprehensive training and professional development, including:

• SEN-focused workshops on autism, ADHD, SEMH, and speech and language interventions
• EYFS-specific training on play-based learning, early literacy and numeracy, and social-emotional development
• Opportunities for mentorship and guidance from experienced staff in EYFS and ARP provision
• Career progression pathways within EYFS, SEN, and ARP settings
• Supportive environment to share best practices and innovative approaches

Why Work With Us?

This role offers a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children with SEN and additional needs. You will be joining a collaborative and supportive team, where your skills and passion for education will have a direct impact on children’s learning, confidence, and wellbeing. The school values staff wellbeing, professional growth, and inclusive practice. You will work in a safe, friendly, and stimulating environment where every child is encouraged to succeed and develop holistically.

Commitment to Safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. All staff are required to have an enhanced DBS check, and candidates will be expected to adhere to school policies and procedures regarding child protection, health, and safety.