Location: Croydon

Start Date: As soon as possible

Contract Type: Temporary and permanent

Salary: £85 – £105 per day

Join a warm, inclusive, and supportive primary school in Croydon with a dedicated Enhanced Learning Provision (ELP) for pupils with additional needs. We are currently seeking a compassionate and experienced Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant to support Year 1 pupils within the ELP, helping to create a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment.

About the Role:

As a Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant, you will provide specialist support to pupils with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory needs, and communication challenges. You will work closely with the class teacher and SEN team to deliver individualised support, using recognised communication and behavioural strategies. This is a full-time role working from 8:00am to 3:30pm, Monday to Friday. Reliability, consistency, and a calm approach are essential.

Responsibilities:

· Provide one to one and small group support for pupils with ASD and additional learning needs

· Support children who are nonverbal using strategies such as PECS and Makaton

· Assist with sensory regulation and implement personalised sensory strategies

· Work collaboratively with the class teacher and SEN team to adapt learning materials

· Create a safe, structured, and positive learning environment

· Support pupils during transitions, playtimes, and small group activities

· Help prepare resources and maintain accurate pupil support records

· Promote independence, communication, and emotional regulation

Requirements:

· GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths (essential)

· Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (essential)

· Enhanced DBS check on the update service (essential)

· Experience supporting pupils with ASD (essential)

· Experience supporting non verbal pupils (highly desirable)

· Knowledge of PECS, Makaton, and sensory strategies (highly desirable)

· Experience in a specialist or SEND educational setting (preferred)

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills

· Ability to remain calm and consistent

· Good organisational skills and attention to detail

· Understanding of child development and SEND support

Working Conditions:

· Full time role, Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 3:30pm

· Classroom based and ELP based support

· May involve supporting sensory activities, movement breaks, and physical tasks

· Work closely with young children with varying needs

What We Offer:

· A supportive school environment with a strong commitment to staff wellbeing

· An opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a specialist provision

· A dedicated consultant available throughout your placement

Commitment to Safeguarding:

Reed is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All applicants must undergo thorough background checks in line with the DfE statutory guidance Keeping Children Safe in Education, including an enhanced DBS check and reference verification. Online searches may be conducted as part of our due diligence.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about supporting children with additional needs and have the experience required for this role, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability.