Role: SEN Teaching Assistant

Location: Leigh on Mendip School / Part of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership 

Start Date: As soon as possible

Closing Date: Friday 16th October. Shortlisting will take place on this day. 

Interview Date: Wednesday 21st October

Hours: 26 hours per week (4 days per week: 8.30am – 3.30pm). Fixed-term contract until August 2027. 

Salary: Grade 3, SCP 5 – 7 

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, particularly those with special educational needs? Do you have a nurturing nature, strong teamwork skills and a desire to support pupils in reaching their full potential?

Leigh on Mendip School is seeking a dedicated, enthusiastic and caring Level 2 SEN Teaching Assistant to join our supportive team. In this rewarding role, you will work under the direction of teaching and senior staff to deliver structured support programmes, enable full access to learning and help build a positive, inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

What We’re Looking For:

Essential:

Qualifications/Experience: Either an NVQ Level 2 for Teaching Assistants (or equivalent) plus completion of the DfES TA Induction Programme, OR a minimum of 3 years’ recent, relevant experience supporting children with complex needs and delivering structured education programmes.

Education: Good basic standard of education, particularly in English and Maths.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Basic understanding and proficiency in technology (Google Drive, Google Mail).
• Ability to implement learning strategies across various individual needs.
• Strong communication skills and a courteous, friendly manner with both children and adults.

Attributes: A self-motivated, reflective practitioner who works constructively as part of a team and promotes high expectations and pupil independence.

Desirable:

• Appropriate knowledge of general First Aid.
• Training in relevant learning and intervention strategies (e.g., literacy).
• General understanding of the national curriculum, foundation stage and relevant codes of practice.

Key Responsibilities:

• Pupil Support: Attend to personal, health, hygiene and welfare needs; implement individual target action plans; build positive role-model relationships; and offer pastoral care.
• Learning & Curriculum: Deliver targeted 1:1 and small group interventions in literacy, numeracy and ICT, adapting activities to suit pupil needs.
• Classroom & Teacher Support: Assist with lesson preparation, resource maintenance, classroom displays and record-keeping. Provide regular feedback to teachers regarding pupil progress and behaviour.
• Behaviour & Well-being: Encourage positive behaviour, address incidents promptly in line with school policy and foster pupil self-esteem and independence.
• General Duties: Participate in staff development, performance management and maintain strict confidentiality and safety standards at all times.

We Can Offer:

• The opportunity to work alongside a collaborative and welcoming team dedicated to every pupil's success.
• Access to high-quality continuous professional development both within the school and as part of the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership.
• A supportive working environment with engaged children who are eager to learn.

You can find out more about our school by visiting our school website. We encourage visits to the school, please contact the school office if you would like to arrange.

The successful applicant will start as soon as possible.