We are currently working with a wonderful primary school based in Preston. The school are looking to appoint a qualified and experienced Special support assistant to join them in September. The role will be specifically supporting a pupil in year 1 on a 1-2-1 basis. The role is initially Monday to Friday 8.45-12.30 but hours will be upped as the term progresses to become a full time role.
You are expected to provide dedicated 1:1 support for a pupil in Year 1 with special educational needs, enabling them to access the curriculum, engage in learning, and achieve their individual targets within a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Key Responsibilities
👩🏫 Pupil Support
- Provide 1:1 support tailored to the child’s individual needs (academic, social, emotional, and behavioural)
- Implement strategies from EHCPs, support plans, or SEN guidance
- Adapt learning activities to support access and engagement
- Promote independence while offering appropriate levels of assistance
- Support transitions throughout the school day (e.g. between lessons, playtime, lunch)
📚 Learning & Curriculum
- Work closely with the class teacher to deliver differentiated learning tasks
- Support early literacy, numeracy, and communication skills
- Reinforce learning objectives and provide additional practice when needed
- Use a range of resources and strategies to maintain engagement
💬 Behaviour & Wellbeing
- Support the pupil with emotional regulation and social interaction
- Implement behaviour management strategies agreed with the teacher/SENCo
- Encourage positive behaviour and build confidence and self-esteem
- Act as a consistent and trusted adult for the pupil
📝 Monitoring & Communication
- Observe, record, and report on the pupil’s progress and development
- Contribute to review meetings where appropriate
- Communicate effectively with teachers, SENCo, and other professionals
- Maintain accurate records as required
🤝 Collaboration
- Work as part of a team with teaching staff and external professionals (e.g. speech therapists)
- Engage positively with parents/carers where appropriate
- Contribute to the wider classroom and school environment
Person Specification
✅ Essential
- Experience working with children with SEN (e.g. ASD, ADHD, speech & language needs, or SEMH)
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Patience, empathy, and resilience
- Ability to build positive relationships with children and staff
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills
🌟 Desirable
- Relevant qualification (e.g. Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant)
- Experience supporting children in Key Stage 1
- Knowledge of phonics programmes (e.g. Read Write Inc, Little Wandle)
- Training in areas such as Autism support, Team Teach, or speech & language
Safeguarding Statement
The LTA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.