Reception SEND Teaching Assistant – Darlington

Location: Darlington
Start Date: September 2026
Role: Long-Term, Temporary
Year Group: Reception
Hours: Full-Time

🌟 Reception SEND Teaching Assistant – Darlington

Milk Education is more than a supply partner – we’re a community for educators. Join us and gain access to training, personal development opportunities, and ongoing support.

We’re currently recruiting for a Teaching Assistant to join a welcoming Primary School in Darlington, supporting a Reception child on a 1:1 basis. The child has ASD, so we’re looking for someone who is patient, nurturing and passionate about helping children feel confident, included and ready to learn.

This is a long-term temporary role starting in September 2026, with the potential to become a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to build meaningful experience within a primary school.

You’ll be joining an inclusive and supportive school that is committed to helping every child reach their potential. Whether you’re an experienced Teaching Assistant, a recent graduate, or someone with relevant childcare, nursery, community or social care experience, this could be the perfect opportunity to take the next step in your career.

💛 Your Responsibilities

• Supporting a Reception child 1:1, responding to their individual needs and helping them access learning.
• Providing encouragement and reassurance to support confidence, communication and independence.
• Supporting catch-up activities and helping to close learning gaps.
• Working closely with the class teacher and wider school team.
• Adapting activities and resources to meet the child's individual needs.
• Promoting a positive, inclusive classroom where every child feels valued and supported.
• Helping create a calm, engaging and enjoyable learning environment.

👀 What We're Looking For

• Recent experience working in a school, nursery, childcare, community or social care setting – or relevant hands-on experience.
• Experience supporting children with SEND/ASD is desirable but not essential.
• A Level 2 or 3 qualification in childcare, education or a related subject – or equivalent practical experience.
• A patient, caring and positive approach to supporting children.
• Someone who is confident taking direction from the class teacher and working as part of a team.
• Graduates and applicants with volunteer or placement experience working with children are encouraged to apply!

🎁 Why Milk Education?

• Competitive rates of pay with temp-to-perm routes available.
• Speedy registration process & fast-track compliance – APSCo Compliance+ accredited for the highest safer recruitment standards.
• Flexible days and working hours to suit your schedule.
• Culture-matched placements – we take the time to understand you and find schools that fit your values and strengths.
• Priority Partnership school network – access to trusted schools who work with us long-term on staffing, enrichment and community initiatives.
• 5+ CPD courses completed before placement, including Safeguarding, SEND & Behaviour.
• Access to further accredited training through Milk Academy.
• FREE PSHE lesson plans and resources, designed by real teachers.
• FREE Educator Wellbeing resources and access to our community hub.
• School Preparation Pack with handover notes and insightful school guides.
• 24/7 support from your personal consultant 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.

📩 Interested?

Apply now by sending your CV to Bethany at:
bethany.dowell@milk-education.co.uk

Milk Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We are APSCo Compliance+ accredited, meeting the highest standards in safer recruitment. All applicants will be subject to compliance checks in line with DfE, Keeping Children Safe in Education and APSCo guidelines.

Milk Education is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. By applying, you agree to our Privacy Policy, available on our website. Milk Education is acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy.