At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities in their educational journey.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on inclusive education and personal growth.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, training opportunities, and a rewarding work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of students with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Caring attitude, teamwork skills, and a commitment to inclusion required.
- Other info: Term-time only role with potential for personal and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Responsible To: Class Teacher / SENCO / Head of Department
Job Purpose: To support pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) by providing high-quality, person-centred care and learning support, enabling them to access education, develop communication, and achieve their full potential within a safe and nurturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Classroom Support: Support pupils with PMLD in accessing learning activities tailored to their individual needs. Work closely with the class teacher to implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs), EHCP targets, and therapy programmes. Use specialist approaches such as sensory learning, intensive interaction, and total communication. Support pupils during group and one-to-one learning sessions.
- Personal Care & Wellbeing: Provide personal care support, including toileting, feeding, and dressing, while maintaining dignity and respect. Support pupils with physical needs, including moving and handling, following training and risk assessments. Monitor pupils’ health and wellbeing and report concerns appropriately.
- Communication & Interaction: Support pupils using alternative and augmentative communication methods (e.g. symbols, objects of reference, switches, eye gaze). Encourage social interaction, engagement, and emotional regulation. Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils.
- Health & Safety: Follow safeguarding, health and safety, and medical care procedures at all times. Support pupils with medical needs where required (e.g. epilepsy care, feeding plans) in line with training. Maintain a safe, calm, and inclusive learning environment.
- Teamwork & Professional Responsibilities: Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other professionals. Communicate effectively with colleagues and parents/carers as appropriate. Contribute to record-keeping, observations, and progress reviews. Attend training, meetings, and professional development sessions.
Essential Skills & Qualities:
- A caring, patient, and empathetic approach.
- Commitment to inclusion and supporting pupils with complex needs.
- Ability to work as part of a team and follow guidance.
- Good communication and observation skills.
- Physical ability to support pupils safely (with training provided).
Desirable Experience & Qualifications:
- Experience working with children or young people with PMLD or complex SEN.
- Knowledge of sensory learning, communication strategies, or therapy-led approaches.
- Relevant qualification (e.g. Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant or SEN qualification).
- Training in moving and handling, safeguarding, or first aid (or willingness to undertake training).
Working Conditions: Term-time only (hours as specified by the setting). May involve personal care, physical support, and working with medical needs.
PMLD TA employer: PK Education
Contact Detail:
PK Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PMLD TA
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with PMLD. They might know of openings or can give you a heads-up about upcoming positions.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in relevant communities! Join forums or social media groups focused on special education and PMLD. Engaging with others in the field can lead to job leads and valuable insights.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your experience with PMLD, including any training or strategies you've used. This can really set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We have loads of opportunities for PMLD Teaching Assistants, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace PMLD TA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a PMLD Teaching Assistant. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for supporting pupils with PMLD shine through in your application. Share any relevant experiences or personal stories that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you're a great fit for the role.
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 the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at PK Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with PMLD. Understand the key responsibilities outlined in the job description, especially around IEPs and communication methods. This shows you’re not just interested in the role but also committed to making a real difference.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share examples of how you've supported individuals with complex needs in the past. Highlight your caring and patient approach, as well as any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships with pupils.
✨Team Player Vibes
Emphasise your teamwork skills. Talk about times when you collaborated with teachers, therapists, or other professionals. This role requires a lot of collaboration, so showing that you can work well with others will definitely score you points.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to sensory learning or how they support staff training. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the environment is right for you.