Teaching Assistant Level 2 – Special School (Term Time) in South Shields

Epinay Business & Enterprise School is an outstanding special school currently providing approximately 260 places to pupils from KS1 to KS5. Our pupils have significant learning difficulties and/or diagnosed learning disabilities and are working significantly below age related expectations. Many experience barriers in cognition, processing, literacy, numeracy and communication which require highly specialised teaching approaches.

All pupils have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and benefit from personalised learning programmes, specialist teaching approaches and a holistic, multi-disciplinary model to education. We are committed to providing a structured, nurturing and aspirational environment where every pupil is valued and enabled to achieve their full potential.

At our state-of-the-art school, we are proud to provide a safe, inclusive and inspirational centre of excellence by providing a stimulating environment where learners are supported to achieve challenging and aspirational outcomes in order to develop as happy, confident and independent learners who are prepared for adulthood.

In addition to their learning needs, many pupils have social communication differences, speech and language needs, sensory processing differences and a diagnosis of Autism. Some pupils may also present with social vulnerability and require targeted support to develop independence, emotional regulation and resilience.

We are seeking a dedicated, resilient and compassionate Teaching Assistant (TA) to join our supportive and experienced team. You will work closely with teachers and other staff throughout the school, supporting pupils of varying ages and abilities. Your role will be key in helping pupils access learning, develop communication and social skills and build independence within a structured and nurturing environment.

The key responsibilities of the role are:

• Support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
• Assist in delivering differentiated, tailored learning activities
• Promote positive behaviour and emotional regulation
• Support communication using appropriate strategies
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students and their families
• Work collaboratively with the school staff team

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience of working with children or young people with special educational needs
• Is calm, patient, empathetic and resilient
• Has a genuine passion for supporting pupils with additional needs
• Can remain composed and adaptable in challenging situations
• Works effectively as part of a team
• Is committed to safeguarding and promoting pupil welfare

This is a rewarding role where you can make a meaningful difference every day. Epinay School prides itself on the behaviour, attitudes and achievements of its pupils and we are seeking a practitioner who shares our high expectations and commitment to inclusive excellence.

The school is committed to investing in our staff and developing expertise in specialist SEND practice. We offer high quality CPD opportunities on a regular basis and opportunities to work alongside and learn from therapists and other multi-disciplinary professionals. You will have access to accredited training where appropriate and regular instructional coaching and professional dialogue. There are also opportunities to contribute to whole school improvement.

Epinay School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Applicants will be expected to show they have researched the school; its designation, cohort groups, specialist provision groups and curriculum offer. Visits to the school are recommended and can be arranged through Sandra Stephenson, Head’s PA, on (0191) 4898949 or email sstephenson5@epinay.org.

South Tyneside Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment, and an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) disclosure will be sought along with other relevant pre-employment checks.

In line with the guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education, schools may carry out an online search as part of their due diligence on shortlisted candidates. We do not currently offer skilled worker visa sponsorship.

To apply for this post please download and complete the application form which is saved in “Supporting Documents” and return this to jobs@southtyneside.gov.uk. Closing date: Noon, Monday 27 April 2026.