At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a nurturing educational environment.
- Company: Inclusive specialist provision dedicated to empowering vulnerable learners.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full-time hours during term time, and training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with profound learning difficulties.
- Qualifications: Experience with PMLD or complex needs is desirable; compassion and patience are key.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and grow your skills in a rewarding role.
The predicted salary is between 19000 - 22000 £ per year.
A variety of soft skills and experience may be required for the following role. Please ensure you check the overview below carefully.
Role Overview:
- Position: Teaching Assistant (Complex Needs / PMLD)
- Location: Warrington
- Contract Type: Full Time (term-time)
- Working Hours: 08:30 - 15:30
- Rate of Pay: £95.00 - £110.00 per day
About the Role:
Are you compassionate, patient, and dedicated to supporting children and young people with profound and multiple learning difficulties (PMLD) and complex needs? We are working with a welcoming, inclusive specialist provision that supports pupils with complex physical, sensory, medical, communication, and learning needs. Many pupils require high levels of support throughout the day, including assistance with communication, mobility, sensory engagement, and personal care. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference, supporting pupils to access education in a safe, calm, and nurturing environment while promoting dignity, wellbeing, and inclusion.
As a Teaching Assistant, you will:
- Provide 1:1 and small-group support tailored to individual needs.
- Assist with personal care, feeding, hygiene, and mobility, including moving and handling where required (training provided).
- Support sensory-based learning and communication, using tools such as Makaton, PECS or other communication systems.
- Help implement Education, Health & Care Plans (EHCPs) in collaboration with teachers, therapists, and care staff.
- Create a calm, structured and supportive environment that promotes engagement, comfort, and emotional wellbeing.
Requirements:
- Experience supporting children or young people with PMLD, complex needs, severe learning difficulties, SEND, or within care or health settings is desirable.
- A patient, compassionate, and resilient approach, with a strong understanding of individualised support.
- Willingness and confidence to support personal care, medical routines, and physical needs.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- A commitment to safeguarding, dignity, and the wellbeing of vulnerable learners.
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE, YOU MUST:
- Hold Right to Work in the UK.
- Hold an enhanced child barred list DBS registered with the update service or be willing to apply for one.
- Provide two professional, child-related references covering the last two years.
If you would like to be considered for this role, please apply with a copy of your up-to-date CV. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Prospero Teaching is acting as an employment business/education recruitment agency in relation to this vacancy. The successful candidate will be required to register and have passed all safeguarding/vetting checks with Prospero Teaching in order to fill this vacancy.
Complex Needs Teaching Assistant in St Helens employer: Prospero Teaching
Contact Detail:
Prospero Teaching Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Complex Needs Teaching Assistant in St Helens
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with children with complex needs. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get an interview, be sure to share your experiences and why you're dedicated to supporting children with PMLD. Authenticity goes a long way in making a connection.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical scenarios! Think about how you'd handle specific situations related to personal care or communication support. Being ready to discuss these will show you're serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and passion. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our community of dedicated professionals.
We think you need these skills to ace Complex Needs Teaching Assistant in St Helens
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with children or young people who have complex needs. Use specific examples that showcase your compassion and patience, as these are key traits we’re looking for.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise any skills related to communication systems like Makaton or PECS. We want to see how you can support sensory-based learning and personal care, so don’t hold back on sharing your relevant experiences!
Be Genuine: When writing your cover letter, let your passion for supporting vulnerable learners shine through. We appreciate authenticity, so share why you’re dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with PMLD and complex needs.
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 get you in the running for this rewarding role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospero Teaching
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the specific needs of children with PMLD and complex needs. Familiarise yourself with communication tools like Makaton and PECS, as well as the principles behind Education, Health & Care Plans (EHCPs). This knowledge will show your commitment and readiness to support these pupils effectively.
✨Show Your Compassion
During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've demonstrated patience and compassion in previous roles. Whether it’s a story about helping a child overcome a challenge or supporting a colleague, these anecdotes will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Team Player Vibes
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Discuss any experiences where you’ve worked alongside teachers, therapists, or care staff, and how you contributed to creating a supportive environment for learners.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the specific challenges the school faces in supporting pupils with complex needs or how they implement sensory-based learning. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the wellbeing of the students.