At a Glance
- Tasks: Support young people with complex needs in a nurturing educational environment.
- Company: Join a warm, forward-thinking specialist school in Retford.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, temp-to-perm pathway, and free professional development training.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while building meaningful relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN and strong interpersonal skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33483 £ per year.
Location: Retford, Nottinghamshire
Pay: Competitive daily rate (dependent on experience)
Contract Type: Full-time, Temp-to-Perm (3x roles available)
Start Date: September 2026
Are you a compassionate and proactive individual dedicated to empowering young people with complex educational needs? Do you excel at building meaningful, trust-based relationships that help children feel safe, valued, and ready to learn? Are you looking for a full‑time role starting this September that offers long‑term job security through a clear temp‑to‑perm pathway?
We are currently recruiting three SEN Teaching Assistants to join a vibrant and collaborative team within a highly regarded specialist setting in the Retford area.
About the School
They are a warm, nurturing, and forward‑thinking specialist school dedicated to providing tailored education for pupils aged 5 to 19 with autism spectrum conditions (ASC), ADHD, speech and language difficulties, and complex learning needs. They pride themselves on a therapeutic, high‑staff‑ratio environment where learning is adapted to each child's unique strengths and pace. With outstanding, modern facilities and a heavy emphasis on emotional well-being, outdoor learning, and life‑skills development, they foster a close‑knit community where both pupils and staff are given the space and support to thrive.
Role and Responsibilities
In these full‑time roles, you will work directly alongside class teachers to support small groups of pupils or provide dynamic 1:1 intervention. Your key duties will include:
- Assisting pupils with their daily learning tasks, adapting activities to suit their individual sensory and learning profiles.
- Utilising alternative communication tools such as PECS, Makaton, and visual timetables to help non‑verbal and pre‑verbal learners express themselves.
- Supporting pupils through sensory breaks, sensory circuits, and low‑arousal de‑escalation strategies when they feel overwhelmed.
- Guiding children through life‑skills routines, social interactions, and classroom transition times to build confidence.
- Working in close partnership with class teachers, fellow teaching assistants, and visiting speech and language therapists to track pupil progress and meet EHCP targets.
Skills Required
- A calm, reassuring presence capable of decoding behaviour as communication.
- Prior experience supporting children or young adults with autism (ASC), ADHD, or complex needs within an education, care, or therapy setting.
- Practical familiarity with visual schedules, Makaton, PECS, or symbol‑based communication systems.
- Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and take initiative during busy classroom routines.
Essential Requirements
- Previous experience working with children or young people with special educational needs (SEN) within the UK.
- A strong commitment to full‑time hours starting in September 2026, with the aim of transitioning onto a permanent school contract.
- Full eligibility to work in the UK (please note, visa sponsorship is not available for this role).
- An Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service, or a willingness to undergo a new check via Randstad.
Why Choose Randstad?
When you partner with Randstad Education, you are supported by a global recruitment leader with a deeply personal, local approach. Benefits include:
- Temp‑to‑Perm Pathway: A direct route to securing a permanent contract with a fantastic specialist setting.
- Team Teach Training: Free access to accredited professional development, including Team Teach positive behaviour support training.
- Referral Scheme: Earn £300 in Love2shop vouchers for every person you successfully refer to us (T&Cs apply).
SEN Teaching Assistant x3 in Retford employer: Randstad Education
Randstad Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in Lingfield, UK. With a focus on employee growth through ongoing training and development, staff are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young individuals with severe needs. The modern educational setting provides excellent facilities, ensuring that employees have the resources they need to thrive both personally and professionally.
