SEND Teaching Assistant – PMLD, SEMH & Behaviour Support

Job Category: Specialist Provision

Job Type: Full Time/Part Time, Temporary

Job Location: Wigan area

Pay Rate: £95-105 per day depending on experience and assignment

Start Date: Flexible/ Opportunities for September are available

About the role:

Edstaff are working with a Specialist provision in the Wigan area, which caters for Pupils aged 2-19 years with a diverse range of needs including severe learning difficulties and profound and complex physical/medical needs. You will provide personalised education to pupils with additional learning needs, complex vulnerabilities, and neurodiversity. The pupils may present with ASD, SLD, PMLD, SEMH needs, language, communication difficulties, and complex behavioural or emotional needs.

We are seeking a number of dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic Teaching Assistants to work in Specialist schools across the Wigan area. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to make a positive impact on children and young people.  You will be working closely with pupils who require additional support with emotional regulation, behaviour and engagement within the classroom. This is a relationship-led role, ideal for someone who can remain calm, consistent and patient at all times as well as always being proactive, adaptable, resilient and personable.

Staff are encouraged to build positive, consistent relationships with pupils, creating a stable and structured learning environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to support young people and make a real difference.

Key responsibilities:

• Support pupils on a 1:1 and small-group basis
• Adapt teaching strategies for pupils with additional or high-level needs including ASD, SLD, PMLD, and complex learning difficulties.
• Follow each pupil’s individual educational, emotional, and development plan
• Support pupils who require additional communication support, including pupils using mechanical systems of communication and PECS.
• Providing personal care needs, including feeding, toileting, and mobility assistance.
• Using specialized equipment and techniques to facilitate communication and learning such as sensory tools and assistive technology.
• Monitoring and recording students’ progress and wellbeing to provide feedback to teachers and caregivers.
• Promoting a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment that encourages participation and fosters independence.
• Encourage engagement in learning activities
• To build strong, trusting relationships with pupils
• Work closely with the class teacher and SENCO
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, including therapists and parents, to meet holistic care goals

Person specification:

• Previous  experience supporting children or young people with Social, Emotional, Mental Health (SEMH) needs or challenging behaviour
• Previously worked in a role such as: Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Care worker, Support worker or Children’s Residential worker
• Ability to engage students aged 2-19 years
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Ability to remain consistent and structured
• Good communication and teamwork skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Confident classroom presence
• Reliable and punctual with a professional attitude

Essential  requirements:

• Have the right to work in the UK
• Hold a Level 2 or 3 qualification in supporting teaching and learning or relevant experience as detailed above
• Hold an enhanced DBS on the update service or be willing to obtain one
• Able to provide references to cover a 2-year period

Why join EdStaff:

• A dedicated consultant to support you throughout your job search
• Weekly pay via PAYE
• Free online CPD accredited learning opportunities
• Local roles—we find schools that suit your needs and location
• The opportunity to build strong relationships with local schools – potential for long-term and permanent positions
• Competitive pay rates
• Refer-a-friend scheme

Edstaff are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment.