SEND Teaching Assistant

We are seeking an experienced, caring and dedicated Learning Support Assistant to provide 1:1 support for a pupil in Reception with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). The successful candidate will work closely with the class teacher and SENCO to support the pupil's learning, communication, social development and emotional wellbeing both within the classroom and through targeted interventions.

This role would suit someone who is patient, resilient and highly motivated, with a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs. The pupil has significant communication and interaction needs and requires a consistent, nurturing approach to help them access learning, develop relationships and participate successfully in school life.

The successful candidate will:

• Ideally have experience of supporting children with SEND, particularly those with communication and interaction needs, speech and language difficulties, or autism spectrum conditions.
• Be able to use visual supports, structured routines and clear, step-by-step approaches to help children understand expectations, manage transitions and engage in learning.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to interpret and respond sensitively to a child's verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Be patient, calm and resilient, maintaining a positive and nurturing approach even when faced with challenges.
• Be skilled at building trusting relationships and promoting social interaction, communication and emotional wellbeing.
• Have an understanding of child development and the EYFS curriculum.
• Be able to adapt learning activities and use their own initiative to support personalised learning and increasing independence.
• Work effectively and professionally with children, families, staff and external professionals.
• Promote positive role models and high expectations for all pupils.
• Understand the importance of confidentiality, data protection and safeguarding responsibilities.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusion and ensuring every child can thrive and achieve their potential.

About Our School

Little Houghton is a small village primary school located just 10 minutes from Northampton. We are a warm, welcoming and inclusive school with a supportive and hardworking staff team. We are committed to professional development and will provide appropriate training and ongoing support for the successful candidate.

If you are passionate about making a difference to the lives of children with additional needs and would like to join our caring school community, we would love to hear from you.

The role is for 30 hours per week, Monday - Friday 8.45am - 3.15pm with half an hour unpaid lunch break. The role is paid on the NJC Pay scale as Grade D points 3-4 with a starting salary of £24,796 pro rata.

Closing Date: Thursday 2nd July

Interview date: Tuesday 7th July

Start Date: Thursday 3rd September 2026

If you have any questions or would like to visit the school please contact Lisa Wyatt for by telephoning 01604 890788 or by e mail on:

bursar@lt-houghton.northants-ecl.gov.uk

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments will be made subject to an enhanced DBS check and medical clearance and all shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches.