Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN)? Do you have experience working as a Teaching Assistant or Mentor, or are you looking to start a rewarding career in this field? We are currently seeking dedicated, compassionate, and skilled individuals to join our team in special schools across Oldham and surrounding areas.

Positions Available:

• Full-Time & Part-Time Specialist Teaching Assistants
• Full-Time & Part-Time SEN Mentors

About the Role: As a Specialist Teaching Assistant or Mentor, you will play a key role in supporting students with diverse learning needs, ensuring they receive the tailored support they require to thrive in a classroom setting. You will work closely with class teachers, therapists, and other professionals to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment, helping students to develop their academic and personal skills.

Types of Needs You Will Support:
The students you will work with may have a range of specific educational needs, including:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Helping students with communication, social interaction, and sensory processing challenges.
• Dyslexia: Supporting students with reading and writing difficulties and finding alternative strategies for learning.
• Physical Disabilities: Assisting students with mobility challenges, including the use of adaptive technology and equipment.
• Speech and Language Impairments: Helping students with speech or language delays to communicate effectively.
• Behavioural and Emotional Needs: Working with students who experience anxiety, trauma, or social and emotional difficulties.
• Moderate to Severe Learning Disabilities: Supporting students who require more individualised care in academic, social, and life skills development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist teachers in delivering lessons tailored to the needs of students with SEN
• Provide one-to-one or small group support to students with a variety of learning difficulties
• Encourage positive behaviour and help students develop social and emotional skills
• Monitor progress and provide feedback to teachers and parents
• Help to create and implement individualised learning plans
• Support students in their day-to-day activities, both inside and outside the classroom
• Use assistive technology and resources to support learning where necessary

Skills & Qualities Beneficial to the Role:
The following skills and qualities will be valuable in having a positive impact:

• Patience & Empathy: Understanding that each student’s journey is unique, with individual challenges and successes.
• Adaptability: Ability to modify teaching strategies and learning activities to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication with students, teachers, parents, and other professionals.
• Problem-Solving: Creative thinking to support students’ academic and personal development in ways that work best for them.
• Teamwork: Working collaboratively with educators, therapists, and families to support each student’s progress.
• Behaviour Management: Techniques to foster positive behaviour and manage challenging situations calmly and effectively.
• Experience with Specific Needs: Knowledge of working with students with ASD, dyslexia, speech and language delays, and other SEN would be an advantage.

Ideal Candidates Will Have:

• Experience working with students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or a strong interest in doing so
• A patient, empathetic, and flexible approach to working with young people
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work well in a team
• Experience in a teaching assistant or mentoring role (desirable but not essential)
• A relevant qualification (e.g., Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent) is an advantage, but not essential.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle (full-time or part-time options available)
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students
• A supportive and inclusive work environment

If you are ready to make a difference and work in a rewarding and fulfilling role, we’d love to hear from you!
How to Apply: To apply, please send your CV to Amy.Fitzgerald@hays.com or give us a call on 0161 228 7300.
We look forward to hearing from you!