Special Needs Teaching Assistant - Immediate Start Location: Dudley Contract: Full-Time, OngoingWe are seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Special Needs Teaching Assistant (TA) to join a supportive and dynamic team at a school in Dudley, starting immediately. This is a full-time, ongoing role, offering an exciting opportunity to work with children with a variety of special educational needs (SEN) and make a real difference in their lives.About the School: This unique and vibrant school provides specialist education for children with a range of complex needs, aged between 4 and 19 years. The school is committed to creating a nurturing environment where every student is valued, and personalised education plans are put in place to help each child reach their potential. The students at the school have a variety of learning needs, including autism spectrum disorder, moderate to severe learning disabilities, communication difficulties, and physical disabilities. The school fosters an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where each student is encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.About the Class: The class you will be supporting consists of children with a broad range of needs. These include:
- Children with autism (ranging from high-functioning to more complex needs).
- Students with moderate to severe learning disabilities, requiring a highly differentiated approach to learning.
- Children with speech and language delays, and other communication difficulties.
- Students with physical disabilities requiring additional support for mobility and physical care.
- Children who may also have behavioural needs are often associated with their SEN.
The class sizes are small, with a high staff-to-student ratio, allowing for personalised teaching and strong one-on-one support. Each child's individual needs are at the forefront of the learning process, and you will work closely with the class teacher to support students both academically and socially. Your role will involve providing tailored support to enable children to engage with the curriculum and participate in school activities in a safe, structured, and engaging environment.Key Responsibilities:
- Provide support to students with SEN in the classroom, both individually and in small groups.
- Assist with personal care needs, including feeding, dressing, and supporting mobility where necessary.
- Help to create and maintain a positive, inclusive classroom environment.
- Assist students with communication needs using appropriate methods, such as communication aids or strategies.
- Support the teacher with planning and delivering lessons, ensuring all students are engaged and can access the curriculum.
- Promote students' social, emotional, and personal development, using positive behaviour management techniques.
- Work collaboratively with the class teacher, other TAs, and parents to ensure students' individual needs are met.
- Assist with record-keeping and progress tracking for students, and support the preparation of teaching resources.
Key Requirements:
- Previous experience working with children with special educational needs is highly desirable, but not essential.
- A genuine passion for working with children with SEN, particularly those with autism, learning disabilities, and physical disabilities.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, teachers, and parents.
- Patience, empathy, and the ability to remain calm and positive in challenging situations.
- A flexible and proactive approach to supporting children's needs.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students.
Desirable:
- Experience using communication aids or techniques for children with speech and language difficulties.
- A relevant qualification (e.g., Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification, SEN training) would be beneficial but is not essential.
What We Offer:
- A supportive, dedicated, and experienced team committed to ensuring the best outcomes for every child.
- A highly collaborative working environment where ideas and best practices are shared to continually improve teaching and learning.
- Ongoing professional development opportunities to help you grow in your role.
- A rewarding and fulfilling role, with the opportunity to have a real impact on the lives of children with diverse needs.
- A warm and welcoming school environment that celebrates individuality and fosters a sense of community.
If you are passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and want to make a positive impact on their learning and development, we would love to hear from you. To apply or for more information, please submit your CV and a cover letter as soon as possible.Deadline for applications: ASAP
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