sen teaching assistant.

£90 - £95 per day

Bury St Edmunds

Are you an exceptionally empathetic and resilient Learning Support Assistant (LSA) or Teaching Assistant ready to dedicate your skills to a specialist SEN setting?

Do you thrive on the challenge of supporting students with a broad range of complex Special Educational Needs (SEN) and possess the patience and structure required to facilitate genuine academic and emotional breakthroughs?

We are seeking a proactive and committed individual to join a highly supportive and dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) school community in the Bury St Edmunds area. If you are passionate about providing a structured, nurturing, and success-driven learning environment, we want to hear from you.

The Opportunity

A fantastic, immensely rewarding opening exists for an experienced LSA/TA to work within a well-regarded, specialist SEN school provision near Bury St Edmunds. This crucial role involves supporting pupils across various key stages who have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP) encompassing moderate to severe learning difficulties, Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), and associated communication needs.

Your contribution will be central to helping students engage meaningfully with a tailored curriculum, develop vital independent living skills, and master their communication and social interactions. You will be instrumental in creating a calm and predictable environment, often supporting pupils on a 1:1 or small group basis within a highly structured classroom setting.

Core Responsibilities

• Provide tailored, direct support to named pupils, meticulously implementing their individual learning, communication, and therapeutic targets as outlined in their EHCP.
• Assist the class teacher in preparing and adapting a differentiated curriculum, utilising visual supports and sensory resources to ensure accessibility for all learners.
• Employ effective de-escalation and positive reinforcement strategies to manage sensory regulation challenges and instances of distress constructively.
• Facilitate and support the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods, such as PECS or Makaton, as required by the students.
• Act as a key worker and reliable adult, helping students navigate the school day, particularly during transitions and break times.
• Maintain accurate, professional records of pupil progress, sensory needs, and incidents for EHCP reviews and professional discussions.
• Collaborate effectively with class teachers, therapists (e.g., Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy), and external agencies to ensure a holistic approach to student development.

Essential Profile

• Previous professional experience (paid or voluntary) supporting children or young people with complex and varied SEN, such as Autism (ASC), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), or Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD).
• A proven track record of using structured intervention techniques and a genuine understanding of the needs of non-verbal or minimally verbal learners.
• Familiarity with visual schedules, sensory diets, and other supports used within a specialist setting.
• High levels of patience, empathy, and flexibility, coupled with a calm and consistent approach to routines.
• Excellent communication skills, and the ability to work confidently and proactively as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Possession of an Enhanced Child DBS on the update service (or willingness to complete one promptly).

Benefits of Joining Us

• A competitive daily pay rate of £90 - £95, reflective of your specialist experience and dedication.
• The opportunity to work in a vibrant, purpose-built SEN school in Bury St Edmunds that prioritises staff well-being and continuous professional growth.
• Access to specialist, accredited training in areas such as Manual Handling, ASC best practice, and specific communication aids.
• A profoundly rewarding role where you will see tangible, life-changing progress in the students you support.
• £300 Refer A Friend scheme (terms apply).

How to Apply

If you are a dedicated, specialist support professional ready to make a significant positive impact in a Bury St Edmunds SEN school, please apply immediately with your CV or contact Neeraj at neeraj.kommaravalli@randstad.co.uk for more information.

We are the UK market leader for recruitment in education. We have nearly two decades of experience helping teachers and support staff find temporary and permanent roles in schools, colleges, and nurseries. We partner with over 2,500 schools each week, supporting more than 135,000 children every day across the country, which allows us to find the right match for your skills.