At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with additional needs using Makaton and create an inclusive classroom environment.
- Company: Join a supportive team dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Free training, ongoing support, and opportunities for skill development.
- Other info: Temporary position with potential for permanent role; safeguarding training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real impact every day by helping children find their voice.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND and practical knowledge of Makaton preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
A role where communication really matters. We’re looking for a kind, patient Teaching Assistant who’s confident using Makaton to support pupils with additional needs. If you’re someone who understands that communication goes beyond words, and you enjoy helping children find their voice, you’ll fit right in here. You’ll be working closely with teachers, SENCOs, and specialists to make sure every pupil feels included, understood, and ready to learn.
What you’ll be doing:
- Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Using Makaton throughout the day to help pupils communicate and engage
- Assisting with lessons and adapting activities to suit individual needs
- Supporting social, emotional, and behavioural development
- Helping create a calm, positive, and inclusive classroom environment
- Working as part of a team with teaching staff and external professionals
- Tracking progress and celebrating those all-important small wins
What you’ll bring:
- Experience working with children or young people with SEND
- Practical knowledge of Makaton, training is a bonus but not essential
- Strong communication skills and a naturally supportive approach
- Patience, empathy, and the ability to adapt when things change
- A team-focused attitude and willingness to get stuck in
- A real passion for helping children grow in confidence and independence
Nice to have (but not essential):
- Experience in SEN settings, such as autism or speech and language needs
- Additional training in behaviour support or communication strategies
What’s in it for you:
- Free access to CPD, including SEND and communication training
- Ongoing support from a consultant who’s got your back
- Opportunities to develop your skills and experience
- A role where you can genuinely make a difference, every single day
If you’re ready for a role where your support really counts, we’d love to hear from you. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details. Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’. We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service. Full assistance provided.
Teaching assistant (Makaton) employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Contact Detail:
Protocol Education Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching assistant (Makaton)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to teachers, SENCOs, and other professionals in the field. They can provide insights and might even know of openings that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your Makaton skills! During interviews or networking events, demonstrate how you use Makaton to communicate. This will highlight your confidence and make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to adapt! In the world of teaching assistants, flexibility is key. Prepare examples of how you've adjusted your approach to meet individual needs in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching assistant (Makaton)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Makaton Skills: Make sure to highlight your experience with Makaton in your application. We want to see how you’ve used it to support communication, so share specific examples that showcase your confidence and creativity!
Be Personal and Passionate: Let your personality shine through! We love applicants who are genuinely passionate about helping children with additional needs. Share your motivations and any personal experiences that have shaped your approach to teaching.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to the role. Mention how your skills align with our values and the specific responsibilities of the Teaching Assistant position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your Makaton
Make sure you brush up on your Makaton skills before the interview. Being able to demonstrate your knowledge and use of Makaton will show that you're serious about supporting pupils with additional needs. Practise some key signs and phrases so you can confidently incorporate them into your responses.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've supported children in the past. Highlight your patience and understanding, especially in challenging situations. This will help the interviewers see that you genuinely care about making a difference in children's lives.
✨Team Player Mindset
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with teachers and specialists. Talk about times when you've successfully contributed to a team effort, as this role requires a strong team-focused attitude. Show that you're ready to get stuck in and support your colleagues.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations with pupils. Think about scenarios involving communication barriers or behavioural challenges. Prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your problem-solving skills and adaptability, which are crucial in a teaching assistant role.