Some children require more than academic support—they need someone who is patient, resilient, and committed to helping them overcome barriers to learning every single day.
An outstanding specialist school in Leicestershire is seeking a dedicated Complex Needs Teaching Assistant to support pupils with a diverse range of additional needs, including SEND and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to work within a highly supportive, multidisciplinary environment where every child follows an individualised pathway designed to help them achieve their full potential.
The school is recognised for investing heavily in staff through a comprehensive induction programme, ongoing specialist training, and continuous professional development. Whether you already have experience in specialist education or are looking to build a long-term career supporting children with complex needs, you'll be supported every step of the way.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide dedicated 1:1 and small group support for pupils with complex SEND and SEMH needs
- Support pupils with learning, communication, emotional regulation, and social development
- Build positive, trusting relationships that promote confidence and engagement
- Implement behaviour support strategies and personalised learning plans
- Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and wider multidisciplinary teams
- Promote independence and develop pupils' life skills
- Contribute to a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment
- Support pupils with personal care and manual handling where required
Requirements
- Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEND on a 1:1 basis
- Experience working with pupils with complex needs, autism, SEMH, or behavioural needs
- Patient, resilient, and adaptable approach
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Strong understanding of inclusive practice
- DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one
Desirable Skills & Qualities
- Psychology Degree or related qualification
- Background in care, residential support, or health and social care
- Manual Handling training
- Strong knowledge of SEND and inclusive education
- Calm under pressure with excellent emotional resilience
- Passion for helping children achieve their individual potential
About the School
This specialist setting provides education for children and young people with a broad range of additional needs, combining high-quality SEND provision with specialist support for pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs. Learning is personalised to each pupil, with a strong emphasis on communication, emotional wellbeing, independence, and preparing learners for successful futures.
The school places significant value on developing its staff and offers an excellent induction programme, regular training, collaborative working, and clear opportunities to develop specialist skills within SEND education. Staff are encouraged to continually grow their expertise while making a meaningful difference to the lives of children every day.
Why Milestone?
Milestone Education is a committed Equal Opportunities Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, race, ethnicity, disability, or sexual orientation. All successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check via the Disclosure and Barring Service. Our HR and Safeguarding team will support you every step of the way.
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Pay: £24,000.00-£31,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Are you a UK or overseas candidate?
- Do you currently have the right to work in the UK?
- Do you have a DBS registered on the Update Service?
- Do you have a work reference from the last two years?
- Which best describes the role you are looking for? (Teacher, Cover, Support, SEND)
Work Location: In person
