Location: Watford, Hertfordshire
Role Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only
Salary: £22,500 – £27,000 FTE
Start Date: ASAP

About the School

Situated in the heart of Watford, our primary school is renowned for its inclusive and nurturing environment where children of all abilities can thrive. We are committed to delivering high-quality education that supports pupils academically, socially, and emotionally. Our school has a specialist ARP (Additional Resource Provision) unit catering to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, learning difficulties, and complex communication needs, alongside mainstream EYFS and KS1/KS2 classrooms.

Our EYFS classrooms are designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children aged 3–5 through structured play, exploration, and early academic skills. We aim to provide a smooth transition for children from early years into Key Stage 1, particularly for those with SEND who may require additional support.

The ARP unit works closely with mainstream classrooms to provide personalised, structured interventions and one-to-one support. Staff collaborate with SENCOs, therapists, and parents to implement strategies that promote learning, independence, and social-emotional development.

Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate, patient, and skilled Teaching Assistant to work across our EYFS classrooms and ARP provision. This role will involve supporting pupils with complex learning needs, sensory difficulties, and behavioural challenges, providing targeted one-to-one or small-group support.

The successful candidate will work closely with teachers and SEN staff to deliver differentiated learning, implement IEPs, and manage behaviour positively. You will also help develop resources and activities that encourage engagement and progression for all pupils, ensuring their individual needs are met.

This position is ideal for someone who is flexible, empathetic, and committed to inclusive education, with experience supporting children with SEN, autism, or social-emotional difficulties.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one support and small group interventions for children with complex learning needs, ASD, ADHD, and SEMH challenges

• Support teachers in lesson planning, classroom organisation, and differentiated instruction

• Implement and monitor Individual Education Plans (IEPs), behaviour support plans, and sensory programmes

• Foster positive behaviour, self-regulation, and resilience, encouraging children to engage with their learning

• Assist with play-based learning and practical activities in EYFS, promoting curiosity, communication, and problem-solving skills

• Support pupils during transitions, ensuring a smooth move between ARP units and mainstream classes

• Record pupil progress, behaviour incidents, and intervention outcomes, providing feedback to teachers and the SENCO

• Assist with exam or assessment administration, including providing extra time, prompting, or alternative communication support

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development, focusing on SEN, ARP, and EYFS best practices

• Collaborate with colleagues, parents, and external professionals to ensure consistency in approach and support

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience in EYFS, primary, or SEN/ARP settings, ideally with children on the autism spectrum or with ADHD

• Relevant qualifications such as Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant, NCFE Support Work in Schools, CACHE, or equivalent

• Strong understanding of child development, SEND strategies, and positive behaviour management

• Ability to remain calm, patient, and adaptable in challenging situations

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for working with children, parents, and colleagues

• Knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and health and safety procedures

• Enthusiasm for collaborative working, contributing to a positive and inclusive school culture

Training and Professional Development

Staff in this role will receive:

• Comprehensive induction and ongoing training on SEN, ARP, and EYFS practices

• Workshops on autism awareness, ADHD strategies, social communication interventions, and sensory integration

• Mentoring from experienced SEN and EYFS staff

• Opportunities for career progression within EYFS, ARP, or mainstream teaching pathways

• Participation in collaborative planning sessions, professional learning communities, and skill-sharing initiatives

Why Work With Us?

Joining our Watford school provides the opportunity to:

• Make a real difference in the lives of children with SEND, supporting their growth and development

• Work in a friendly, inclusive, and supportive environment with experienced colleagues

• Access training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities tailored to EYFS and SEN/ARP provision

• Collaborate with a team that values innovation, empathy, and child-centered approaches

• Build strong relationships with pupils, families, and the wider school community

• Be part of a school that is committed to inclusion, safeguarding, and high standards of teaching and learning

This role allows you to contribute to a school culture where every child feels valued, understood, and supported, while also developing your own professional skills and experience in early years education and special educational needs support.

Commitment to Safeguarding

Our school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils. All staff are required to:

• Hold an enhanced DBS check

• Adhere to all safeguarding policies and procedures

• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment