At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with additional needs through tailored one-to-one and small-group interventions.
- Company: PK Education connects passionate candidates with schools, inspiring potential since 2005.
- Benefits: Enjoy term-time only hours, a supportive team environment, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Join a compassionate team dedicated to empowering young people with diverse needs and enhancing their life skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with MLD or ASC is essential; training in SEND strategies is a plus.
- Other info: This is a temporary long-term position based in Conisborough, South Yorkshire.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 Β£ per year.
We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic SEND Support Assistant to join a specialist provision supporting pupils aged 7β16 with a range of additional needs. Pupils may have moderate learning difficulties (MLD), autism spectrum conditions (ASC), speech, language and communication needs, sensory needs, SEMH, and some medical requirements. This setting offers a personalised, needs-led curriculum focused on developing communication, independence, life skills, and emotional regulation.
You’ll work closely with teachers and other professionals to ensure the best outcomes for each pupil, offering both classroom support and targeted interventions.
Job Spec & Description:- Deliver one-to-one or small-group support tailored to EHCP outcomes
- Support pupils with communication needs using tailored strategies (e.g. symbols, AAC devices)
- Assist with sensory and emotional needs, including participation in TeamβTeach and SEMH approaches
- Prepare and maintain resources for independence, life-skills, and sensory/motor development
- Support transitions within school and liaise with families and external professionals
- Contribute to record-keeping, pupil progress monitoring, and IEP updates
Experience working with children/young people with MLD, ASC, SEMH or related needs.
Understanding or training in SEND-specific communication strategies β e.g. Makaton, PECS, visual supports.
Calm, empathetic, consistent approach and excellent interpersonal skills.
Ability to work flexibly within a team of professionals.
Experience with behaviour support, Team-Teach, or similar is highly desirable.
SEND Support assistant - MLD employer: PK Education
Contact Detail:
PK Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land SEND Support assistant - MLD
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with moderate learning difficulties (MLD) and autism spectrum conditions (ASC). Understanding these challenges will help you demonstrate your empathy and suitability for the role during any discussions.
β¨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have in supporting children with SEND, especially those with communication needs. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've used, such as Makaton or PECS, to show your practical knowledge.
β¨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the SEND field. Attend local workshops or training sessions related to SEND support, as this can provide you with valuable insights and connections that may lead to job opportunities.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to emotional regulation and behaviour support. Being able to articulate your methods and experiences with Team-Teach or similar approaches will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Support assistant - MLD
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements and responsibilities of a SEND Support Assistant. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the needs of pupils with MLD, ASC, and other additional needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children or young people with special educational needs. Mention specific strategies you have used, such as Makaton or PECS, and how they benefited the pupils you supported.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your interpersonal skills and empathetic approach in your application. Provide examples of how you have successfully worked within a team of professionals and contributed to positive outcomes for students with diverse needs.
Personalise Your Application: Make sure to personalise your cover letter by addressing it to the hiring manager, if possible. Express your passion for supporting children with additional needs and your commitment to fostering their independence and emotional regulation.
How to prepare for a job interview at PK Education
β¨Show Your Empathy
As a SEND Support Assistant, empathy is key. Be prepared to share examples of how you've supported children with additional needs in the past, highlighting your understanding and compassion.
β¨Know Your Strategies
Familiarise yourself with SEND-specific communication strategies like Makaton or PECS. Discuss how you would implement these strategies during the interview to support pupils effectively.
β¨Demonstrate Teamwork
This role involves working closely with teachers and other professionals. Be ready to talk about your experience in collaborative settings and how you contribute to a team environment.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them, especially regarding emotional and sensory needs.