Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant in Farnham

We are seeking a compassionate, resilient and skilled Specialist SEN Teaching Assistant to join our SEARCh Inclusion Base.

Salary: PS4/PS5 dependent on experience

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 3:15pm, 38.6 weeks per year.

SEARCh is our specialist nurturing provision for children who may experience social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, attachment-related difficulties, anxiety, emotional dysregulation or barriers to learning. This is not a general classroom TA role. It is a specialist position within a highly relational and trauma-informed SEMH provision where strong relationships, emotional safety and consistency are central to helping children succeed.

The successful candidate will work as part of a skilled and supportive team alongside a teacher and experienced teaching assistants. The provision also benefits from close collaboration with our ASD Unit and input from external professionals and advisors.

We are looking for someone who understands that behaviour is communication and who can remain calm, reflective and emotionally attuned, even during challenging moments.

The role will include:

• Supporting children with emotional regulation, anxiety and social interaction.
• Building strong, trusting and consistent relationships with children.
• Helping children develop readiness for learning through structure, nurture and co-regulation.
• Supporting learning within a small, structured and highly supportive environment.
• Working closely with teachers, the SENDCo and outside professionals to implement personalised strategies and support plans.
• Responding calmly and professionally during moments of dysregulation or crisis.
• Helping create a safe, inclusive and relational environment where children feel understood and able to flourish.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience supporting children with SEMH, attachment needs and/or SEND.
• Understands trauma-informed and relational approaches.
• Is resilient, patient and emotionally aware.
• Can build positive relationships while maintaining clear and consistent boundaries.
• Works well as part of a supportive and reflective team.
• Is committed to ongoing professional development.

In return, we offer:

• A genuinely supportive and caring staff team.
• Regular training and professional development in SEMH, attachment and trauma-informed practice.
• The opportunity to work within a highly inclusive school with strong specialist provision.
• The chance to make a real and lasting difference to children’s lives every day.

We reserve the right to shortlist and interview prior to the closing date. Early applications are therefore strongly encouraged. For an informal discussion or to arrange a visit, please contact the school office.

Safeguarding Statement: St Paul's CofE Primary School & Nursery, Tongham is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.