training and education
Safeguarding & Prevent
Location: Plymouth, Devon
Contract Type: Long-Term & Day-to-Day opportunities available
Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30 - 15:30 (Term time only)
Contact: Hannah Joyner (Randstad Education)
About the Role
Are you a resilient, empathetic, and experienced SEN professional looking to make a genuine difference in young people's lives?
We are seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to join a vibrant Alternative Provision in Plymouth. This role is not your average classroom job. You will be supporting vulnerable pupils who have slipped through the cracks of mainstream education, many of whom display challenging behaviour, complex social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, or trauma.
You will work closely with teaching staff to re-engage these students, de-escalate challenging situations, and help them build the confidence they need to succeed. Because community access and off-site learning are big parts of this role, a full UK driving license is essential.
What You'll Be Doing:
Providing 1:1 and small group support to pupils with complex SEN and SEMH needs.
Using proven de-escalation techniques to manage and redirect challenging behaviour safely.
Assisting with off-site educational trips and community-based learning (driving required).
Building strong, trusted relationships with students who may be defensive or disengaged.
Creating a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment.
What We Are Looking For (Essential Criteria):
Experience: Proven experience working with children or young adults with SEN and challenging behaviour is essential. (Experience in PRUs, Alternative Provisions, or youth work is highly advantageous).
Driving License: A full, clean UK driving license is essential for this role.
Resilience: A thick skin, a calm demeanour under pressure, and a non-judgemental attitude.
Reliability: Consistency is key for these students; we need someone committed to the 08:30 - 15:30 routine.
What's in it for you?
Flexibility with both long-term block bookings and day-to-day contracts to suit your lifestyle.
Competitive daily rates paid weekly.
The chance to make a profound, visible impact on a young person's future.
Dedicated support from your Randstad consultant.
How to Apply
If you have the experience, the drive, and the passion to thrive in an Alternative Provision environment, we want to hear from you today.
Email your CV to: hannah.joyner@randstad.co.uk
Or call Hannah directly for an informal chat on: 01293 527416
...
