Specialist 1-1 Teaching Assistant

Job Title: Full time

Contract Type: Temporary for the academic year 2025-2026

Salary: Grade B/C depending on experience

Start Date: ASAP

We are seeking a compassionate, experienced, and resilient Specialist 1:1 Support Teaching Assistant to join our dedicated team on a temporary basis until August 2026. The successful candidate will provide high-quality support to pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, primarily on a one-to-one basis, with some small group work as required. This role is key in supporting learning, using trauma-informed approaches, nurture-based strategies, and promoting emotional regulation to enable pupils to thrive in their school environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide tailored 1:1 support to pupils with SEMH needs, helping them engage with learning and thrive in school.
• Use trauma-informed, nurture-based and emotionally-regulating approaches to support behaviour and emotional development.
• Be flexible and responsive in your approach, adapting strategies to meet the pupil’s evolving needs throughout the day.
• Deliver targeted interventions and collaborate with class teachers, the Inclusion Leader and external agencies where appropriate to implement effective support plans.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils and support their social interaction and emotional well-being.Observe and track progress, contributing to reviews and planning.
• Uphold all safeguarding, health & safety, and school policies and procedures.

Person Specification:

Essential

• Experience supporting children with SEMH needs in a school or alternative provision.Knowledge of trauma-informed practice, nurture principles, and emotional regulation strategies.
• A flexible, proactive mindset and the ability to respond sensitively and effectively to a pupil’s changing needs.
• A calm, empathetic, and adaptable approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• A relevant TA qualification (Level 2 or 3).

How to Apply: To apply, please visit https://www.lairagreen.com/Our-School/Vacancies/

Closing Date: 20th October 2025

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All candidates should read our Safeguarding policy before applying.

Visits to the school by prospective candidates are welcome; if you would like a tour or have any questions,please direct emails to Claire Jones, Headteacher by contacting laira.green.primary.school@plymouth.gov.uk

‍