SEND Teaching Assistant level 2 or 3 - working with physical disability

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SEN Teaching Assistant (Level 2 or 3) Ashton West End Primary Academy

Are you a compassionate, patient and proactive teaching assistant who wants to make a real difference every day? Join Ashton West End Primary Academy and support pupils with special educational needs and disabilities to access learning, build confidence and achieve their potential in a warm, inclusive school community.

About our school

Ashton West End Primary Academy is a two-form entry primary school in Ashton-under-Lyne with large grounds and a small, specialist SEN provision for communication and interaction needs. We are a multicultural, eco-friendly school where differences are celebrated and mutual respect is expected. Our pupils and families are central to everything we do:

• 443 pupils on roll
• 90% from minority ethnic backgrounds and 75% with English as an additional language
• 47.6% eligible for free school meals
• 9.2% with SEND, including 6.7% with EHCPs
• New SEND unit to open in September taking 20 additional pupils with EHCPs

Our values perseverance, inclusion and respect shape daily life at the school. We follow the OFSTED framework and are actively working to strengthen attendance, curriculum implementation and the monitoring of progress for our most vulnerable pupils.

About the role

We are looking for an experienced and committed SEN Teaching Assistant (Level 2 or 3) to work under the direction of class teachers and the SENCO to support a child with SPTAN1 neurodevelopmental disorder.

This is a varied, hands-on role where you will:

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support, delivering planned learning activities and targeted interventions
• Follow and implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs), behaviour plans and therapy guidance (speech and language, occupational therapy)
• Support the pupil’s social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) and promote independence and resilience
• Assist the child to move from their walking frame to their wheelchair or to the floor throughout the day
• Assist with intimate care tasks professionally and sensitively when required
• Use IT and adaptive resources to support learning and record progress
• Supervise the pupil safely on the playground during lunch and playtime.

This role requires elements of manual handling. Relevant training will be provided but candidates should be aware that this is a key aspect of this role. It is also is central to our inclusive vision you will support pupils from diverse backgrounds, many of whom have EAL and additional needs, and help them access a broad, balanced curriculum.

About you the ideal candidate

We are looking for someone who:

• Is nurturing, patient and respectful, able to build trusting relationships with pupils and families
• Has experience supporting primary-aged pupils with SEND (particularly physical needs) or a strong willingness to learn
• Can follow therapeutic and intervention plans consistently and adapt communication for pupils with EAL and other needs
• Has good organisational skills and can keep accurate records of pupil progress and behaviour
• Is energetic and active and willing to be involved in a range of activities including physical and sensory play
• Works well as part of a team with class teachers, the SENCO and external professionals
• Holds (or is willing to work towards) Level 2 or Level 3 TA qualifications; GCSEs in English and maths are desirable
• Has basic first aid and safeguarding awareness, or willingness to train as part of induction

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and especially encourage applications from bilingual candidates and those with experience of working in diverse, multicultural settings.

What we offer

• A supportive, values-driven school community committed to inclusion and professional development
• Induction and ongoing training in SEN strategies, behaviour management, speech and language programmes, OT/physio techniques and EAL awareness
• Opportunities to develop skills and progress (e.g., Level 3 or 4 TA qualifications and specialist SEND training)
• Participation in our appraisal process with clear professional goals
• A chance to make a measurable difference to pupils’ lives and learning in a school that celebrates difference and community

Practical details

• Salary: TA Level 2 or 3 (Grade D7E16, depending on experience)
• Contract: Permanent 8:30am- 3:30pm, Monday- Friday
• Closing date: Friday 12th June 2026 before 12pm
• Shortlisting date: Tuesday 16^th June 2026
• Interview date: Wednesday 24^th June 2026
• How to apply: Complete and submit the school application form (CVs will not be accepted in place of the application form)
• Send completed applications or any queries to: kpizuti@awepa.org.uk
• Tours of the school are welcome

Ashton West End Primary Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. Appointment will be subject to satisfactory references and enhanced DBS clearance.

Join us and help every pupil feel welcome, confident and ready to succeed. We look forward to receiving your application.