Teaching Assistant (Special Educational Needs)

Location:  Liverpool
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Contract: Full-time, Term Time Only
Start Date: ASAP

About the Role

Specialist SEND Group are recruiting for a specialist secondary school for pupils aged 11–19 with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and a range of additional needs. The school is committed to providing outstanding educational provision within a caring, inclusive environment where every pupil is valued and supported to achieve their full potential.

We are seeking a compassionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated Teaching Assistant to join our experienced team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting young people with special educational needs and making a meaningful difference to their lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils with a range of learning difficulties, autism, communication needs, and complex needs within the classroom and around the school.
• Assist teachers in delivering engaging, differentiated learning activities.
• Promote pupils’ independence, communication skills, and social development.
• Support pupils with personal care and medical needs where required.
• Help create a safe, positive, and nurturing learning environment.
• Implement behaviour support strategies and contribute to individual learning plans.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, parents, and external professionals.
• Support pupils during educational visits, enrichment activities, and life skills programmes.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience working with children or young people.
• A patient, caring, and resilient nature.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with pupils and staff.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Desirable:

• Previous experience within a special school or SEND setting.
• Knowledge of autism, learning difficulties, sensory needs, or communication strategies such as Makaton or PECS.
• Relevant Teaching Assistant qualification (Level 2 or Level 3).
• Experience supporting personal care needs.

What We Offer

• A supportive and welcoming staff team.
• High-quality training and professional development opportunities.
• The opportunity to make a genuine impact on the lives of young people with SEND.
• A positive and inclusive working environment.
• Access to specialist resources and experienced SEND professionals.

Safeguarding

SSG is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, and appropriate safeguarding clearances.

If you are passionate about helping young people achieve their potential and thrive in a specialist educational setting, we would love to hear from you.