At a Glance
- Tasks: Support primary pupils with SEND in a nurturing environment, enhancing their learning and social skills.
- Company: Join Protocol Education, a supportive school dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Professional development opportunities, friendly staff, and the chance to impact young lives.
- Other info: Enjoy a welcoming environment with potential for permanent placement and ongoing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs every day.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification and experience with SEND, especially Autism and complex learning needs.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Protocol Education is currently recruiting for a dedicated and adaptable Teaching Assistant to join a specialist primary SEND provision supporting pupils aged 5–11 years. The setting caters for children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). This is an excellent opportunity to join a nurturing and highly supportive environment where pupils are encouraged to achieve their full potential through personalised learning and specialist support.
The Role
As a Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting pupils both academically and socially, working closely with class teachers and other professionals to deliver a positive and engaging learning experience. Responsibilities will include:
- Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and within small groups
- Assisting with the delivery of tailored learning activities
- Supporting communication, social interaction and emotional regulation
- Promoting independence and confidence in pupils
- Contributing to the implementation of EHCP targets
- Assisting with personal care where required
- Supporting pupils during breaktimes, educational visits and wider school activities
- Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and families to ensure the best outcomes for pupils
The Successful Candidate Will:
- Hold a minimum Level 3 qualification (or equivalent)
- Have experience supporting children or young people with SEND, particularly Autism and complex learning needs
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of child development and learning processes
- Be patient, resilient and committed to supporting individual pupil needs
- Have high expectations of themselves and the pupils they support
- Be able to contribute positively to the wider life of the school
- Be an excellent team player with strong communication skills
Desirable Experience:
- Previous experience within a specialist SEND setting
- Knowledge of Autism-friendly strategies and communication approaches
- Experience supporting pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties
- Ability to drive a minibus or willingness to undertake training
Working Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 8:30am – 4:00pm
Friday: 8:30am – 3:30pm
What We Can Offer:
- A welcoming and supportive school environment
- Friendly and experienced staff teams
- Opportunities for professional development and training
- The chance to make a genuine difference in the lives of children with additional needs
- Dedicated support from your Protocol Education consultant throughout the placement
- All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay
- This advert is for a temporary position; the option to make this role permanent may become available later
- We offer free online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers
Safeguarding Requirements:
All applicants will be subject to safeguarding and vetting checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance. To be considered for this role, you must:
- Have an Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or be willing to apply and pay for one
- Provide two recent professional references covering the last two years
- Have the right to work in the UK
Full‑time applicants only.
Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEND Provision in Sunderland employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Protocol Education is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and supportive environment for Teaching Assistants dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children with special educational needs. With opportunities for professional development and a collaborative work culture, you will be part of a team that values patience, resilience, and commitment, ensuring that every pupil achieves their full potential. Located in a welcoming school setting, this role provides the chance to engage meaningfully with pupils while receiving dedicated support from experienced staff and your Protocol Education consultant.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEND Provision in Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEND. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We suggest using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for supporting children with SEND during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed that you won't find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEND Provision in Sunderland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND, especially Autism and complex learning needs. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant qualifications!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for supporting children with additional needs shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely committed to making a difference, so share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
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 role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Autism Spectrum Condition and Severe Learning Difficulties. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils in a specialist SEND setting, as this will show your commitment and understanding during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience supporting children with SEND. Think of specific examples where you've made a difference, whether it's through tailored learning activities or promoting independence. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in a SEND environment. Be ready to talk about how you've worked with teachers, therapists, and families in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you contribute positively to a team, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in real-life scenarios, like how you'd handle a challenging behaviour or support a pupil during a difficult moment. Think through your responses ahead of time, focusing on patience, resilience, and your strategies for fostering a positive learning environment.
