Are you passionate about supporting children with additional needs and making a meaningful impact in education? Zen Educate is currently recruiting unqualified Teaching Assistants to work within a primary SEND provision in Blyth, Northumberland.
This is a highly rewarding opportunity for caring, patient, and enthusiastic individuals who want to help children overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential. Previous experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is highly desirable, although we welcome applications from candidates with transferable skills and a genuine interest in working with children.
While this particular position is based within a primary SEND setting, we also have opportunities available in secondary schools for those who would prefer to work with older pupils.
About the Role
As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will be supporting pupils with a variety of additional needs, helping them to access learning, develop social skills, and build confidence in a safe and supportive environment.
The pupils you support may have:
- ASD (Autism)
- ADHD
- Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
- Moderate or Severe Learning Difficulties (MLD/SLD)
- Sensory processing needs
- Physical disabilities or complex needs
Every day can be different, making this role both challenging and incredibly rewarding.
Key Responsibilities Classroom Support
- Support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups throughout the school day
- Assist teachers in delivering engaging and inclusive lessons
- Adapt learning activities to meet the individual needs of pupils
- Encourage participation and engagement in classroom activities
- Help prepare and organise learning resources and classroom materials
Behaviour and Emotional Support
- Build positive and trusting relationships with pupils
- Support children in managing their emotions and behaviour
- Use positive behaviour management strategies in line with school policies
- Help pupils develop social skills, confidence, and independence
- Remain calm and professional when supporting pupils who may become dysregulated or anxious
Personal Development
- Encourage pupils to develop independence in both learning and daily routines
- Support communication and interaction between pupils and their peers
- Promote positive self-esteem and celebrate achievements
- Help create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all pupils at all times
- Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns appropriately
- Support pupils during breaktimes, lunchtimes, educational visits, and enrichment activities
- Assist with personal care needs where required and appropriate training has been provided
What Schools Expect
Working within a school environment requires professionalism, reliability, and a genuine commitment to supporting young people.
Successful candidates will be expected to:
- Arrive punctually and maintain excellent attendance
- Follow school policies and procedures at all times
- Maintain professional boundaries with pupils, parents, and staff
- Demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Work effectively as part of a wider school team
- Show flexibility and adaptability when supporting different pupils and classrooms
- Maintain confidentiality regarding pupils and school matters
- Act as a positive role model for children and young people
Experience and Skills
We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates who have experience in:
- SEND support roles
- Care work
- Residential support
- Youth work
- Sports coaching
- Nurseries and childcare settings
- Healthcare support
- Community support work
The most important qualities are patience, empathy, resilience, and a genuine desire to help children succeed.
Flexible Working with Zen Educate
We understand that flexibility is important, which is why we offer a range of opportunities including:
- Full-time positions
- Part-time roles
- Day-to-day supply work
- Long-term placements
- Flexible bank work to fit around your schedule
Whether you are looking for consistent work or occasional shifts, we can help find opportunities that suit your availability.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must:
- Hold an Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service, or be willing to apply and pay for one through Zen Educate
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Be committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
- Be willing to undertake compliance and vetting checks required for working within schools
Why Work with Zen Educate?
- Flexible working opportunities that fit around your lifestyle
- Competitive rates of pay
- Access to a variety of primary and secondary school settings
- Ongoing support from a dedicated education recruitment team
- Opportunities to gain valuable classroom experience and develop your career in education
If you're passionate about supporting children with SEND and want to make a genuine difference in a school environment, apply today to join Zen Educate and start your journey as a Teaching Assistant in Blyth, Northumberland.
IND-AP-NEW-AL
Pay: £100.00-£110.00 per day
Benefits:
- Free parking
- Referral programme
Work Location: In person
