Unqualified SEN Teaching Assistant- Chorley

SEN Teaching Assistant (Unqualified)

Purpose of the Role

The SEN Teaching Assistant will work closely with teaching staff to support pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The successful candidate will help create an inclusive, supportive, and engaging learning environment where every child is encouraged to achieve their full potential. This role is suitable for individuals who are passionate about working with children and are keen to develop a career within education, regardless of whether they hold a formal teaching assistant qualification.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide individual and small-group support to pupils with a variety of additional learning needs.
• Assist pupils in accessing classroom activities and adapting learning where appropriate under the guidance of the class teacher.
• Encourage positive participation, confidence, and independence throughout the school day.
• Support pupils with communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and behaviour management strategies.
• Work collaboratively with teachers and the SENCO to implement support plans and individual learning targets.
• Monitor pupil engagement and progress, providing feedback to teaching staff as required.
• Help prepare learning resources and maintain an organised and stimulating classroom environment.
• Supervise pupils during lessons, breaktimes, lunchtimes, educational visits, and other school activities when required.
• Support pupils with personal care or medical needs where appropriate and following relevant training.
• Promote positive relationships with pupils, families, colleagues, and external professionals.
• Attend staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with safeguarding, health and safety, and school policies at all times.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Enthusiasm for supporting children with additional needs.
• A caring, patient, and understanding approach.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Willingness to undertake training and develop new skills.
• Good organisational skills and a proactive attitude.
• Basic literacy, numeracy, and ICT skills.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children's wellbeing.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working with children in a school, nursery, care, youth work, or voluntary setting.
• Awareness of a range of Special Educational Needs, including autism, ADHD, speech and language needs, or SEMH.
• Experience supporting pupils on a one-to-one basis.
• Relevant training such as First Aid, behaviour management, or safeguarding.

Qualifications

A formal Teaching Assistant qualification is not essential for this role. We welcome applications from candidates with transferable skills and experience who demonstrate a genuine commitment to supporting children with Special Educational Needs. Full induction and ongoing training will be provided.