Job Description

Pupil Support Assistant - Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Location: Northallerton

Employer: Empowering Learning

Empowering Learning are currently recruiting for a compassionate and enthusiastic Pupil Support Assistant to join a specialist educational setting in Northallerton. This is a rewarding opportunity to support children and young people with a range of complex additional needs, helping them to access learning, develop independence, and achieve their individual goals.

The successful candidate will work closely with teachers and other professionals to provide high-quality support in the classroom and throughout the school day.

Key Responsibilities

Provide one-to-one and small group support to pupils with a range of special educational needs.

Assist pupils with learning activities, adapting support to meet individual needs.

Encourage independence, confidence, and engagement in lessons and school life.

Support pupils with autism, severe learning difficulties, physical disabilities, communication needs, and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.

Assist with personal care, including toileting, changing, feeding, and promoting personal hygiene where required.

Support pupils with mobility needs, using moving and handling techniques and specialist equipment following appropriate training.

Work alongside teachers and therapists to help deliver personalised learning and therapy programmes.

Promote positive behaviour by following individual behaviour support plans and using positive behaviour management strategies.

Record observations and contribute to monitoring pupil progress.

Help prepare learning resources and maintain a safe, stimulating learning environment.

Supervise pupils during breaktimes, lunchtime, educational visits, and other school activities.

Build positive relationships with pupils, families, colleagues, and external professionals.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is:

Passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs.

Patient, caring, resilient, and adaptable.

Confident working as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Able to build trusting and supportive relationships with pupils.

Comfortable supporting pupils with personal care and mobility needs.

Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Willing to undertake relevant training to develop their skills.

Essential Skills and Experience

Previous experience working with children or young people, ideally within an SEN, education, care, or support setting.

Knowledge of autism, learning disabilities, and additional educational needs.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to remain calm and respond positively in challenging situations.

Basic IT skills and the ability to maintain accurate records.

A flexible approach and willingness to support pupils across a variety of activities.

Desirable

Level 2 Teaching Assistant, Childcare qualification, or equivalent.

Experience supporting pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

Knowledge of positive behaviour support strategies.

Training in manual handling, safeguarding, first aid, Team Teach, or Makaton.

Experience working with pupils with complex medical or physical needs.

Why Apply Through Empowering Learning?

Competitive rates of pay.

Dedicated consultant providing ongoing support.

Opportunities for professional development and training.

Flexible opportunities with the potential for long-term and permanent positions.

The chance to make a genuine difference in the lives of children and young people every day.

If you are passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and are looking for your next rewarding opportunity in Northallerton, we'd love to hear from you.

Please either call Laura on (phone number removed) or apply within.

INDTEES