Withington, South Manchester

Position: SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Withington, South Manchester
Contract Type: Full-Time, Term Time Only
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:20am – 3:30pm
Salary: £90 – £105 per day (dependent on experience and SEN expertise)
Start Date: ASAP / Next Academic Term

About the School

This welcoming and inclusive primary school located in Withington, South Manchester is seeking a motivated and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join its experienced and supportive team. The school is well regarded within the local community for its child-centred approach, inclusive ethos, and strong commitment to pupil wellbeing and achievement.

Serving a diverse intake of pupils, the school works hard to ensure that every child is supported to reach their potential. SEN provision is a key strength, with clear systems in place for identifying needs, delivering targeted support, and reviewing progress. The leadership team is approachable, forward-thinking, and highly supportive of staff development, creating a positive and collaborative working environment.

The school places equal importance on academic learning and emotional development. Staff are encouraged to take a holistic approach to education, supporting pupils’ social skills, confidence, and resilience alongside their learning in the classroom. Strong partnerships with parents and external agencies ensure pupils with additional needs receive consistent and effective support.

The Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 who have a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Pupils may have Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, speech and language difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), sensory processing needs, anxiety, or moderate learning difficulties.

The role may involve working 1:1 with a pupil who has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), or supporting small groups as part of structured intervention programmes. You will work closely with the class teacher and SENCO to implement personalised support strategies that help pupils access learning, manage emotions, and develop independence.

A key aspect of this role is building strong, trusting relationships with pupils. Many of the children you support may need additional reassurance, consistency, and encouragement throughout the school day. You will play an essential role in helping pupils feel confident, included, and capable within the school environment.

Key Responsibilities

Your responsibilities as an SEN Teaching Assistant will include:

• Providing tailored SEN support on a 1:1 or small-group basis

• Supporting pupils to access the curriculum through differentiated learning activities

• Assisting with literacy, numeracy, phonics, and topic-based work

• Implementing strategies outlined in EHCPs, IEPs, and behaviour support plans

• Supporting emotional regulation and promoting positive behaviour

• Using de-escalation techniques and restorative approaches

• Supporting communication, language, and social interaction

• Encouraging independence, confidence, and resilience

• Supporting pupils during transitions between lessons and activities

• Assisting with playtimes and lunchtimes where required

• Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCO, and pastoral staff

• Monitoring progress and recording observations

• Contributing to review meetings and SEN documentation

• Maintaining a safe, calm, and inclusive learning environment

• Adhering to safeguarding, confidentiality, and school policies

The Ideal Candidate

The school is seeking an SEN Teaching Assistant who can demonstrate:

• Experience supporting children with SEN in schools or similar settings

• A calm, patient, and empathetic approach

• Confidence in managing behaviour and emotional needs

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• The ability to build positive relationships with pupils and colleagues

• Flexibility and adaptability in a busy school environment

• A proactive and reflective attitude

• A clear understanding of safeguarding and child protection

Experience working with autism or SEMH is highly desirable, though applicants with transferable experience from childcare, youth work, mental health support, or care roles are encouraged to apply.

Training and Support

The school is committed to ongoing professional development and offers:

• Regular SEN-focused CPD and training

• Support and mentoring from an experienced SENCO

• Opportunities to develop expertise in inclusive practice and behaviour support

• Access to external specialist training

• Clear guidance and regular feedback

This role is ideal for individuals considering long-term careers in education, SEN support, psychology, or child development.

What the School Offers

• A welcoming and inclusive school culture

• Supportive and approachable leadership

• Strong focus on staff wellbeing

• Well-resourced SEN provision

• Collaborative and respectful staff team

• Opportunities for long-term employment and progression

• The chance to make a meaningful difference to pupils’ lives

Safeguarding Statement

The school is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff share this responsibility. The successful applicant will be required to undertake enhanced DBS checks, provide satisfactory references, and complete right-to-work checks in line with safer recruitment guidelines.