SEN teaching assistant

Are you passionate about making a genuine difference in a child's educational journey?

Do you have the patience, empathy, and resilience to support pupils facing emotional and behavioural challenges?

Are you looking for a rewarding role where no two days are the same within a supportive primary school in South Leeds?

• Location: South Leeds (LS10 / LS11 area)

• Contract: Full-Time, Term Time Only

• Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM

• Salary / Daily Rate: £85 - £100 per day (dependent on experience)

• Start Date: ASAP

A welcoming and inclusive primary school in South Leeds is seeking a dedicated and proactive Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant.

In this role, you will provide tailored 1:1 support to Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. You will be instrumental in creating a calm, structured environment where pupils feel safe, understood, and motivated to engage with learning.

• Deliver consistent, empathetic 1:1 support to designated pupils inside and outside the classroom.

• Use positive behaviour management and de-escalation strategies to help pupils self-regulate.

• Build strong rapport with pupils to boost their confidence, emotional wellbeing, and social communication.

• Work collaboratively with class teachers, the school SENCo, and external specialists to implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and behavioural support plans.

• Facilitate small-group or sensory breakout sessions when pupils require time away from the main classroom.

• Safeguard pupils' wellbeing in line with school policies and statutory guidance.

• Experience: Previous experience working with children or young people with SEMH, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), or complex behavioural needs (in a school, youth work, or care setting).

• Skills: Strong de-escalation skills, calm under pressure, and a solution-focused mindset. Training in Team-Teach or MAPA is desirable, though not essential.

• Attributes: High levels of emotional intelligence, patience, consistency, and a non-judgmental approach.

• Qualifications: Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualification, degree in Psychology/Education, or equivalent relevant experience. GCSEs (A*-C / 4-9) in English and Maths.

• Tailored Opportunities: We work closely with a wide network of outstanding primary schools throughout Leeds to find you roles that fit your preferred year groups and locations.

• Competitive Pay & Perks: Excellent rates of pay alongside access to our exclusive benefits app, offering discounts on supermarkets, high-street brands, and restaurants.

• Dedicated Local Support: You will work directly with a specialist education consultant based in West Yorkshire who understands the local Leeds market and supports your career goals.

• Ongoing Development: Access to free CPD training modules to keep your skills up to date.

• Referral Scheme: Earn rewards through our lucrative refer-a-friend scheme.

If you are interested in this position then submit your CV or call Chelsea on [phone removed] to discuss the role further

experience

Teaching

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communication

qualifications

CACHE level 1 or 2