Experienced SEN Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEND School in Sheffield

Location: Sheffield

Salary: £95-£120 per day (depending on experience and responsibilities)

Job Type: Full-Time, Term Time Only

Start Date: September 2026

Tradewind Recruitment are proud to be working in partnership with a well-established and highly respected Multi-Academy Trust to recruit an Experienced SEN Teaching Assistant for one of their specialist SEND schools in Sheffield. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated and supportive team, making a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people with complex Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The pupils within this setting have very high levels of need, requiring patient, compassionate and nurturing individuals who are committed to helping every child reach their full potential.

If you have experience supporting children with complex needs and are looking for a rewarding full-time role from September 2026, we would love to hear from you.

The Role

As an Experienced SEN Teaching Assistant, you will provide tailored support to pupils with a range of additional needs, including Autism (ASC), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), complex communication needs and associated behaviours. You will work closely with teachers, therapists and the wider school team to create a positive, safe and engaging learning environment where every pupil can thrive. This role requires someone who is calm under pressure, resilient and able to build trusting relationships with children who need consistency, understanding and encouragement throughout the school day. A nurturing approach is essential, as many pupils require emotional reassurance alongside their educational support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality support to pupils with complex SEND on a 1:1 basis and within small groups.
• Assist in delivering personalised learning activities tailored to individual Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Encourage communication, independence, emotional regulation and positive behaviour.
• Support pupils with personal care where required, ensuring dignity and respect at all times.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals to meet each child's individual needs.
• Adapt learning activities and support strategies to suit each pupil's abilities.
• Help create a safe, engaging and inclusive learning environment.
• Record pupil progress and contribute to reviews and planning meetings where appropriate.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Previous experience working within a specialist SEND school or supporting children with complex additional needs.
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with SEND.
• A patient, resilient and nurturing approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence supporting pupils with behaviours that challenge using positive behaviour strategies.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Availability to work full-time during term time from September 2026.

Why Work Through Tradewind Recruitment?

• Competitive daily rates of pay.
• Access to over 2,500 FREE CPD courses through The National College.
• A dedicated specialist SEND consultant to support you throughout your placement.
• Opportunities to work within a highly respected Multi-Academy Trust.
• Flexible payroll options.
• Ongoing career development and access to long-term and permanent opportunities.

Salary Information (£95-£120 per day)

Our daily rates of pay are determined individually and reflect several factors, including:

• Your previous experience supporting children with SEND.
• The complexity of the role and the responsibilities required by the school.
• Whether the role includes supporting pupils with personal care, medical needs, moving and handling or highly complex behaviours.
• Relevant qualifications, training and specialist skills.
• The budget allocated by the school for the position.

Candidates with extensive experience supporting children with complex SEND, alongside relevant qualifications and specialist skills, are more likely to be considered for opportunities towards the higher end of the pay scale.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking to make a real difference within a specialist SEND school from September 2026, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your up-to-date CV for consideration.