Graduate SEND Classroom Assistant

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We’re currently recruiting for a Graduate Teaching Assistant to join a Specialist SEND School in Newcastle on a long-term, short-term, or temp-to-perm basis, starting in September.

This specialist setting supports secondary-aged students with a range of additional needs, including Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), complex communication needs and associated physical or medical needs. Every student follows a highly personalised curriculum designed to develop communication, independence, emotional wellbeing and essential life skills.

This role is ideal for a Psychology graduate looking to gain practical experience before pursuing a career in Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, CAMHS, Behaviour Analysis or other specialist SEND professions.

Working alongside experienced teachers, therapists and healthcare professionals, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of autism, sensory processing, communication strategies, behaviour support and child development while making a genuine difference to the lives of young people with complex needs.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Providing one-to-one and small group support for students with PMLD, ASC and complex additional needs.
• Supporting students with communication using visual supports, Makaton, PECS or other alternative communication methods where appropriate.
• Assisting with sensory-based learning activities designed to promote engagement, independence and emotional regulation.
• Supporting students with personal care and moving and handling where required (full training provided where necessary).
• Helping students develop independence, life skills, social interaction and confidence through personalised learning activities.
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and the wider multidisciplinary team to implement individual learning and therapy programmes.
• Using positive behaviour support strategies to encourage engagement and celebrate each student’s progress.
• Observing and recording student development to contribute towards individual education plans and personalised outcomes.
• Creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where every young person feels valued and supported.

Requirements or Skills:

• A degree in Psychology (or due to graduate this year) is highly desirable. Graduates in Education, Health & Social Care, Childhood Studies, Sociology or related subjects are also encouraged to apply.
• An interest in pursuing a career in Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, SEND, Therapy, Mental Health or another child-focused profession.
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs.
• A patient, compassionate and resilient approach, with the ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills.
• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND through volunteering, care work, youth work, coaching, tutoring or similar is advantageous but not essential.
• Confidence working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and following guidance from teaching staff and therapists.

Benefits:

• Competitive rates of pay with temp-to-perm opportunities available.
• Speedy registration process & fast-track compliance – APSCo Compliance+ accredited for the highest safer recruitment standards.
• Flexible working opportunities to suit your availability.
• Culture-matched placements – we take the time to understand your career goals and place you in schools where you can thrive.
• Priority Partnership school network – access to specialist SEND schools offering excellent experience for aspiring psychologists and therapists.
• 5+ CPD courses completed before placement (including Safeguarding, SEND, Autism & Behaviour), with ongoing accredited training through Milk Academy.
• FREE Educator Wellbeing resources and access to our community hub.
• School Preparation Pack with handover notes and helpful school guides so you feel confident from your first day.
• Dedicated 24/7 support from your personal consultant throughout your placement.

This role is paid within the advertised pay scale. Your starting rate will be determined by your qualifications, relevant experience and the requirements of the assignment.

Interested? Click ‘Apply Now’.

Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are APSCo Compliance+ accredited, meeting the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education and APSCo guidelines.

Milk Education is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. By applying, you agree to our Privacy Policy, available on our website. Milk Education is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.