At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a nurturing and engaging environment.
- Company: Outstanding Special School in the Preston area with a warm community feel.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and excellent work-life balance.
- Other info: Access to state-of-the-art facilities and continuous professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience with children with complex SEND and a caring, resilient attitude.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Preston Area
Salary: Competitive / Dependent on Experience (Pro-rata)
Contract: Part-Time (4 Days per Week)
Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 3.30pm, Term-Time Only
Job Type: Temporary with the view of permanent
Are you a passionate and resilient SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding part-time role? We are working exclusively with an Outstanding Special School in the Preston area that caters to children and young people aged 2-19. This highly regarded, warm, and welcoming community school supports pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). If you want to make a tangible difference in a school known for its exceptional facilities, sensory rooms, and child-centred ethos, this role is perfect for you.
Key Responsibilities as an SEN TA:
- Provide tailored, person-centred support to children and young people with complex needs (SLD/PMLD).
- Assist with sensory integration, communication aids (such as PECS/Makaton), and physical/hydrotherapy sessions where required.
- Support personal care and mobility needs with dignity and absolute respect.
- Work closely with class teachers, therapists, and supportive families to foster a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment.
- Engage students in creative, interactive, and messy play activities to build cognitive and emotional development.
What We Are Looking For:
- Experience: Proven experience working with children or young adults with complex SEND (SLD, PMLD, ASD, or complex medical needs).
- Skills: Knowledge of sensory circuits, moving and handling, or alternative communication methods is highly advantageous, though personal qualities are key.
- Attributes: A naturally empathetic, patient, and resilient nature. You should be someone who celebrates the "small wins" every day.
- Commitment: Ability to commit to a consistent 5 days per week schedule to maintain stability for our wonderful pupils.
Why Join This School?
- Work within an Ofsted "Outstanding" environment with a tight-knit, welcoming "family" team.
- Access to state-of-the-art specialist facilities and continuous professional development (CPD).
- Fantastic work-life balance with a part-time, term-time-only schedule.
- Easily accessible from Preston, Blackpool, and the wider Lancashire area.
How to Apply:
To find out more about this incredible opportunity in the Preston area, please click 'Apply Now' or submit your CV directly to (url removed) or call (phone number removed).
Please Note: This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory safeguarding references.
SEN Teaching Assistant (PMLD/SLD Specialist) in Preston employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Join a highly regarded Outstanding Special School in the Preston area, where you will be part of a warm and welcoming community dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of children with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). Enjoy a fantastic work-life balance with a part-time, term-time-only schedule, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and continuous professional development opportunities within a supportive family team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (PMLD/SLD Specialist) in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know of openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN roles. Think about your experiences and how they relate to supporting children with SLD/PMLD. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your enthusiasm for working with children with complex needs come through. It’s all about that genuine connection.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (PMLD/SLD Specialist) in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with children who have complex needs. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in supporting SLD and PMLD students, as this will grab our attention!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for working in SEN and how you can contribute to our warm and welcoming community. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Skills:Mention any experience with sensory integration, communication aids, or personal care. We love seeing candidates who are familiar with PECS, Makaton, or similar methods, so don’t hold back on those details!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity in our Outstanding school!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tradewind Recruitment
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD). Familiarise yourself with communication aids like PECS and Makaton, as well as sensory integration techniques. This will show that you're not just passionate but also well-informed about the needs of the students you'll be supporting.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've demonstrated empathy and patience in previous roles. Talk about those 'small wins' you've celebrated with students, as this aligns perfectly with the school's ethos. They want to see that you can connect with children on a personal level.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Research the school’s values and ethos before your interview. Be ready to discuss how your personal teaching philosophy aligns with their child-centred approach. This will help you stand out as someone who truly fits into their warm and welcoming community.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations involving personal care or mobility needs. Think through some scenarios in advance and be prepared to explain your approach. This will demonstrate your readiness to provide the tailored support that the role requires.
