At a Glance
- Tasks: Support post-16 learners with autism and complex communication needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Forward-thinking SEN school in Wakefield dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Ideal for psychology graduates or support workers transitioning into education.
- Why this job: Transform lives and help students gain independence and essential life skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND, strong communication skills, and a calm, empathetic approach.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
Location: Wakefield (WF4) – easily commutable from Dewsbury, Normanton, Pontefract & surrounding areas
Pay: £107 – £120 per day
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–3:30pm
Start Date: ASAP
Make a Real Difference for Post-16 Learners with Autism & Complex Needs
Are you passionate about supporting young adults with complex communication needs, autism, and additional learning challenges? We’re recruiting a SEN Teaching Assistant for a forward-thinking SEN school in Wakefield, working with Secondary to post‑16 students. This is a highly rewarding role for someone committed to helping learners build confidence, independence, and essential life skills, preparing them for life beyond school.
About the role
- You would be delivering individualized, experiential curriculum for learners with Autism and complex communication needs, focusing on:
- Communication development using Total Communication strategies and the Engagement Model
- Independence, life skills, and community inclusion
- Health, wellbeing, and emotional regulation
- Experiential, sensory‑based learning in familiar, structured environments
- Planning is holistic and needs‑led, with EHCP outcomes central to all activities
- A mix of adult‑led and learner‑initiated sessions ensures engagement and meaningful progress
- Some learners may access integrated enrichment
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting learners 1:1 or in small groups with autism and complex communication needs
- Assisting with the delivery of structured, experiential learning activities
- Helping pupils develop independence, confidence, and functional communication
- Supporting emotional regulation and promoting positive behaviours
- Using sensory strategies and communication tools (Makaton, PECS, symbols) to enhance engagement
- Collaborating with teachers, therapists, and senior staff to deliver individualised learning plans
- Team Teach experience is desirable but not essential
What We’re Looking For
- Experience supporting learners with SEND, autism, or communication challenges
- A calm, patient, and empathetic approach
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Commitment to a full‑time, term‑time position (Monday–Friday, 8:30–3:30)
- Open to candidates with backgrounds in SEN, youth work, social care, psychology, criminology, or support work
- Ideal for candidates living in Wakefield, Dewsbury, Normanton, Pontefract, or nearby areas
Why Join Us
- Competitive pay: £107 – £120 per day
- Long‑term, full‑time role in a supportive, highly specialised SEN setting
- Ongoing CPD and training, including communication strategies, sensory regulation, and behaviour support
- Work in a structured, nurturing environment with experienced staff
- Make a tangible impact on learners’ independence, communication, and life skills
Ideal For
- Experienced Learning Support Assistants
- Graduates in Psychology, Criminology, Education, or related fields
- Support workers looking to transition into education
- Anyone passionate about autism, communication, and post‑16 SEND provision
If you’re ready to transform lives and support post‑16 learners to reach their full potential, we’d love to hear from you.
Email:
Phone:
Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are proudly APSCo Compliance+ accredited, reflecting our dedication to the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to thorough compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education, and APSCo guidelines.
Sen Teaching Assistant in Horbury employer: Milk Education
Milk Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Liverpool. With significant progression pathways, generous incentives, and a supportive environment, we empower our team to thrive in their careers while enjoying a healthy work-life balance with 23 days off annually plus bank holidays.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sen Teaching Assistant in Horbury
✨Dive into Digital Learning Communities
Join online forums and communities focused on digital education, like EdTech Meetups or LinkedIn groups. Engage actively—share ideas and insights, and you'll not only learn a ton but also connect with potential employers and thought leaders in the industry.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Skills
Create content that demonstrates your understanding of digital learning—think blogs, videos, or even free online workshops. This could catch the eye of companies like Milk Education looking for innovative thinkers. Plus, it’s a great way to practice your presentation skills!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still in education or have access to an alumni network, make the most of your university's career services. They often have exclusive job listings and workshops tailored to students wanting to break into full-time roles in education technology.
✨Apply Directly Via Company Websites
When you come across roles like Sen Teaching Assistant at Milk Education, make sure to apply directly through their website. It not only shows you're serious but sometimes you'll find positions listed there that may not be on job boards yet. Keep an eye on those!
We think you need these skills to ace Sen Teaching Assistant in Horbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Learning:When applying for a role in digital learning and education at Milk Education, make sure to sprinkle your application with examples of your enthusiasm for teaching and learning technologies. Share specific experiences where you've used, designed, or implemented digital learning solutions, as this shows us that you truly get the field.
Highlight Relevant Education and Certification:In the digital learning space, having a strong educational background can set you apart. Don't shy away from showcasing your degrees, certifications, or relevant courses related to e-learning, instructional design, or educational technology. We love seeing candidates who have actively invested in their learning journey!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Your CV is your first impression, so let's make it count! Focus on your skills directly related to digital learning, such as course development, learning management systems, and data analysis. Be sure to show measurable results from your past roles to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your qualifications, but your vision for the future of digital education. Discuss how your experiences align with the mission of Milk Education and highlight any innovative ideas you might have for enhancing learning experiences. This is your chance to connect with us on a deeper level!
How to prepare for a job interview at Milk Education
✨Get Hands-On with Learning Technologies
Familiarise yourself with common digital learning tools and platforms, like LMS systems or authoring tools that Milk Education might use. Understanding these will give you an edge and show you’re ready to jump in from day one!
✨Showcase Your Creativity in Lesson Design
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects if you have them, or create sample lesson plans or digital content demos. Being able to discuss your creative approach to engaging students can really set you apart in a full-time role at Milk Education.
✨Brush Up on Educational Trends
Stay in the loop with the latest trends in digital education, like gamification or personalised learning experiences. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your experience working collaboratively with educators or other stakeholders. Consider discussing how you've contributed to a team effort in creating engaging educational content or improving student outcomes.
