SEND Support Assistant

Location: Hartlepool

Working hours: 8.30am–3.30pm, Monday to Friday

Start date: November 2026

Milk Education are recruiting for a SEND Support Assistant to work with young people aged 5–19 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) within a specialist school environment.

The school aims to combine academic achievement with a strong focus on pupil wellbeing, fostering a safe and inclusive environment where every pupil feels seen, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about supporting young people with additional needs and helping them overcome barriers to learning. You will be working alongside a dedicated staff team to provide tailored support that enables students to develop their confidence, independence and life skills.

SEND Support Assistant Key Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 and small group support for students aged 5–19 with a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

• Support young people with Autism, ADHD, Speech and Language needs, SEMH and a range of other learning difficulties.

• Adapt learning activities and resources to meet the individual needs and abilities of students.

• Build positive, trusting relationships that encourage engagement, confidence and resilience.

• Work alongside the SENDCo, teachers and wider staff team to implement personalised learning and support strategies.

• Promote a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment where every student feels respected, supported and able to succeed.

SEND Support Assistant Person Specification

• Recent experience working in an educational setting is desirable but not essential.

• Experienced Support Workers who are keen to work with children and young people are also encouraged to apply.

• Good literacy and numeracy skills.

• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people and helping them overcome barriers to learning.

• A calm, patient and empathetic approach, with the ability to adapt to the individual needs of each student.

• The ability to work proactively, both independently and as part of a team.

• An Enhanced DBS certificate on the Update Service, or willingness to apply for one.

Benefits of Working with Milk Education

• Competitive rates of pay, with temp-to-perm opportunities available.

• A speedy registration process and fast-track compliance.

• Culture-matched placements, taking the time to understand your values, experience and strengths.

• Access to our Priority Partnership school network.

• Five or more CPD courses completed before placement, including Safeguarding, SEND and Behaviour, with further accredited training available through the Milk Academy.

• Free PSHE lesson plans and resources designed by teachers.

• Free educator wellbeing resources and access to our community hub.

• A School Preparation Pack with handover notes and helpful school guides.

• 24/7 support from your personal consultant, directly through their work mobile phone.

This role is paid within the advertised pay scale. Your starting rate will be determined by your qualifications, relevant experience and the requirements of the assignment.

Apply now by submitting your CV.

Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS and compliance checks in line with the DfE's Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance and APSCo standards.

Milk Education is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. Milk Education is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.

NEWC2