Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction)
Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction)

Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction)

Leeds Full-Time 24000 - 36000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Reed

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support children with communication needs in a nurturing environment.
  • Company: Join a diverse Special School in Leeds with strong community ties.
  • Benefits: Enjoy exclusive representation, health plans, and access to training.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive team.
  • Qualifications: Experience with SEND is preferred; relevant qualifications are a plus but not essential.
  • Other info: Work closely with teachers and therapists to foster student growth.

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.

We are seeking a compassionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join our inclusive and nurturing client's team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about supporting children with communication and interaction needs, including those with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), and related profiles.

The school we are supporting is a large and diverse Special School in Leeds, benefitting from strong leadership and excellent community links across key services. Children enjoy school and their education is delivered by highly skilled practitioners that are able to meet challenging needs. You would work as part of a team that provides support to children of EYFS/Primary age. You will work closely with class teachers, SENCOs, and therapists to provide tailored support that helps each child thrive both academically and socially.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide 1:1 and small group support to pupils with communication and interaction needs.
  • Implement strategies and interventions to support speech, language, and social communication.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment.
  • Support the development of pupils’ independence, confidence, and emotional well-being.
  • Collaborate with teaching staff, external professionals, and families to ensure consistent support.
What We’re Looking For:
  • Experience working with children with SEND, particularly in communication and interaction (ASD, SLND, M/SLD).
  • A patient, empathetic, and proactive approach.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
  • Relevant qualifications (e.g., CACHE Level 2/3, or equivalent) are desirable but not essential.
  • Team-Teach, MAPA, Autism Awareness or other related qualifications are desirable but not essential.
We Offer:
  • Exclusive representation to leading SEND Schools and Provisions in the area.
  • 1-2-1 specialist Consultant to support you in finding the right role for your skills and wants.
  • The ability to sign up to a Health Cash Plan and Reed Discount Club.
  • Entitlement to Statutory Sick Pay, Statutory Maternity, Paternity and Adoption Pay, Parental Leave and Antenatal/Pre-Adoption Appointment Payment.
  • Access to Training and Development - Reed Assessment Centre - Reed Learning.

Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction) employer: Reed

Join a supportive and inclusive team at a large Special School in Leeds, where your passion for helping children with communication and interaction needs will be truly valued. With strong leadership and excellent community links, you will benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities, as well as a nurturing work culture that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students. Enjoy exclusive benefits such as a Health Cash Plan and dedicated support from a specialist consultant to help you thrive in your role.
Reed

Contact Detail:

Reed Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with communication and interaction difficulties. Understanding Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the SEND field. Attend local workshops or seminars related to special education needs, as this can provide valuable insights and connections that may lead to job opportunities.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase any relevant experience you have in supporting children with SEND. Whether through volunteering, internships, or previous roles, be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've made a positive impact on children's learning and development.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the school and its community links. Understanding their values and approach to inclusive education will allow you to tailor your conversations and show how you can contribute to their mission.

We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction)

Experience with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)
Understanding of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
Knowledge of Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
Strong communication skills
Empathy and patience
Teamwork and collaboration
Ability to implement strategies and interventions
Commitment to safeguarding children
Adaptability in a classroom setting
Support for emotional well-being
Relevant qualifications (e.g., CACHE Level 2/3)
Team-Teach or MAPA training
Autism Awareness training
Ability to foster an inclusive learning environment

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience working with children with SEND, particularly in communication and interaction. Include specific examples of how you've supported children with Autism Spectrum Condition or Speech, Language and Communication Needs.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting children with communication needs. Mention your empathetic approach and any relevant qualifications or training you have, such as Team-Teach or Autism Awareness.

Highlight Teamwork Skills: In your application, emphasise your ability to collaborate with teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals. Provide examples of how you've worked effectively in a team to support children's learning and development.

Show Commitment to Safeguarding: Demonstrate your understanding of safeguarding principles in your application. Mention any training or experience you have in promoting the welfare of children, as this is crucial for the role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Reed

✨Show Your Passion for SEND

Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children who have communication and interaction needs. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will demonstrate your genuine commitment to supporting these children.

✨Highlight Relevant Experience

Discuss any previous experience you have working with children with SEND, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Condition or Speech, Language and Communication Needs. Be specific about the strategies you implemented and the outcomes achieved, as this will showcase your practical knowledge.

✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills

Since collaboration is key in this role, be prepared to talk about your ability to work effectively within a team. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teachers, therapists, or families in the past to support children's learning and development.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Anticipate questions that may ask how you would handle specific situations involving children with communication and interaction needs. Think through your responses and consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly and effectively.

Teaching Assistant SEND (Communication & Interaction)
Reed
Location: Leeds
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