Teaching Assistant

Location: Thornhill, Southampton
Position: Teaching Assistants & Support Staff
Age Group: 4-11 years
Specialism: Complex Learning Difficulties
Contract Type: Short-term & Long-term Opportunities Available
Salary: Competitive (Dependent on experience)

About the Role:

We are seeking passionate, dedicated, and compassionate individuals to join our team at a welcoming school in Thornhill, Southampton. Our school is committed to supporting children aged 4-11 with complex learning difficulties, providing a nurturing and tailored learning environment for every student.

We are offering a variety of roles, including both short-term and long-term opportunities, and invite applications from Teaching Assistants and other support staff who have a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of children with special educational needs (SEN). Direct school experience is not essential—we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage those with transferable skills or a passion for working with children to apply.

Whether you are an experienced professional or looking to develop a career in this rewarding sector, we have a role for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and group support for children with complex learning difficulties.
• Assist teachers in delivering adapted curriculum and learning activities.
• Support students with communication, social interaction, and behavioural needs.
• Help with classroom management and maintaining a positive, inclusive learning environment.
• Promote the well-being and personal development of students.
• Assist in the preparation of classroom materials and resources.
• Work collaboratively with the wider team, including therapists, to implement personalized learning plans.

What We Offer:

• Multiple opportunities for both short-term and long-term contracts.
• A supportive and inclusive team environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• The chance to make a real difference in the lives of children with complex learning needs.
• Competitive salary depending on experience.

Requirements:

• Experience working with children, ideally within a special education setting (however, direct school experience is not essential).
• A caring, empathetic, and patient approach to supporting students.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Relevant qualifications (such as Level 2/3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning or equivalent) are desirable but not essential.
• A current DBS check (or willingness to obtain one).

Why Apply Through Teaching Personnel?

Teaching Personnel offers a tailored approach to finding the right role for you, with access to exclusive teaching positions that are not always advertised elsewhere. Our dedicated team provides ongoing support, including help with professional development, and ensures a smooth transition into your new role.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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