Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can make a genuine impact while supporting children both academically and emotionally.

At EM Academy Ipswich, we are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environments for pupils who require additional support. We are currently seeking compassionate and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistants to support children with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

The Role – SEND Teaching Assistant

As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting young children with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, global developmental delay, and communication difficulties.

You will assist in the delivery of personalised learning while also supporting pupils’ physical, social, and emotional development, including personal care such as toileting, changing nappies/pull-ups, and maintaining hygiene routines.

This role requires compassion, patience, and a proactive attitude toward nurturing independence and dignity in every child.

What You’ll Do

Educational Support

• Assist in delivering individualised learning plans under the guidance of the teacher and SENDCo
• Support pupils in small group and one-to-one settings to reinforce learning objectives
• Use inclusive strategies such as visual timetables, Now and Next boards, sensory-friendly approaches, and positive behaviour support

Emotional & Social Development

• Support children in developing self-regulation, empathy, social interaction, and independence skills
• Create a safe and nurturing environment that promotes trust, consistency, and positive relationships

Personal Care & Physical Support

• Provide dignified and respectful personal care, including:
  
  • Changing nappies or pull-ups
  • Assisting with toileting and hand hygiene
  • Supporting toilet training programmes
• Maintain records of care routines and report concerns following safeguarding procedures
• Ensure hygiene areas and changing stations are cleaned and sanitised in line with health and safety protocols

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Work closely with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure consistency of care and learning
• Contribute to team meetings and share insights on child development and progress
• Uphold and role model EM Tuition’s core values of compassion, growth, and resilience

This role involves regular physical contact, including lifting and changing, so candidates must be comfortable and physically able to meet these demands.

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Experience working with children in EYFS/KS1
• Comfortable with or willing to provide personal care and hygiene support
• Understanding of Autism, ADHD, SEMH, and trauma-informed approaches
• Compassionate and empathetic approach
• Strong communication with both children and adults
• Calm, patient, and emotionally resilient
• Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
• Committed to safeguarding and child protection
• Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain)
• Safeguarding training (or willingness to complete)

Desirable

• 1+ year experience in a SEND or specialist setting
• Experience with toileting plans, PEG feeding, or manual handling
• Familiarity with PECS, Makaton, or communication aids
• Creative in designing play-based interventions
• Experience in record-keeping or observational assessment
• Willingness to undertake further SEND training
• Knowledge of the EYFS framework
• Paediatric first aid training
• Level 2 or 3 TA qualification (or equivalent)
• Manual Handling / Intimate Care CPD

Training & Support

We provide:

• Induction training in safeguarding, behaviour support, and personal care routines
• Ongoing CPD in areas such as:
  
  • Autism and ADHD strategies
  • Trauma-informed practice
  • Manual handling and intimate care protocols

What We Offer

• Permanent part-time or full-time opportunities
• Term-time only working
• Ongoing CPD and specialist SEND training
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• 32 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays, increasing annually up to 35 days
• Company pension scheme (NEST)

Why This Role?

This is a rewarding opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with SEND
• Support pupils in developing confidence, communication, and independence
• Be part of a nurturing and supportive educational environment
• Work closely with experienced SEND professionals and families

Location

EM Academy Ipswich
Ipswich, Suffolk

Work Location: In person

Safeguarding & DBS Requirements

EM Tuition is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. All staff must share this commitment.

The successful candidate will be required to complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Any disclosed information will be treated in line with current legislation and guidance.

Equal Opportunities

EM Tuition is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We ensure fair and equitable treatment across all stages of employment and actively work to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.