SEND Teaching Assistant (Early Years & Key Stage 1), SEND School, Full-Time, City of Birmingham

Job Description

Job Title: Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Teaching Assistant

School Type: All-Age SEND School

Age Range of Pupils: 4 to 7 years (whole school is 4 to 19 years)

Location: Shirley (B90)

Contract Type: Long-term

Start Date: November 2026

The School

We are seeking a caring, enthusiastic and resilient SEND Teaching Assistant to join the dedicated team of an autism-specific special school. This is an exciting opportunity to work with pupils in Early Years and Key Stage 1, supporting children with a primary diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) some of which have other additional needs.

The school’s pupils are unique individuals who require highly personalised support to help them develop communication, independence, social interaction and emotional regulation skills. They are looking for someone who is passionate about making a genuine difference to the lives of children and their families.

The school requires an individual with high levels of resilience and attendance along with the ability to quickly build trusting and positive relationships with young children. Children, especially those with additional learning needs, need adults they can depend on and feel safe and comfortable with to develop, learn and thrive.

The Role

As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support pupils with autism and additional learning needs in both classroom and outdoor learning environments.
• Work closely with teachers and therapists to deliver individualised learning programmes.
• Promote communication through a range of approaches, including visual supports and alternative communication methods.
• Support pupils to develop social, emotional and independence skills.
• Assist with behaviour support strategies for children who may display behaviours that challenge.
• Support pupils with personal care needs with dignity, respect and sensitivity.
• Foster a safe, nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive.
• Contribute to observations, assessments and pupil progress records.
• Build positive relationships with pupils, parents, carers and colleagues.

About You

We are looking for candidates who:

• Have experience of working with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), particularly autism, or are keen to develop their expertise in this area.
• Are patient, empathetic and able to build positive relationships with children who have complex needs.
• Can remain calm and resilient in challenging situations.
• Have a positive, proactive and flexible approach to supporting learning and development.
• Are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Are willing to undertake personal care responsibilities as part of the role.
• Have strong communication and teamwork skills.

Previous experience in a special school, mainstream school, nursery, care setting or supporting individuals with autism would be advantageous but is not essential. Full training and ongoing professional development will be provided.

Essential Requirements

• Experience working with children is essential, ages 4-7 years are preferable
• Experience supporting children and/or young people with SEND needs
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or we can put one in place for you)
• Two satisfactory references covering a minimum of two years

New Directions Education Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.