SEND Support Assistant

Location: Monkseaton

Working hours: 8.30am-3.30pm Monday to Friday

Start date: November 2026

Milk Education are working in partnership with a fantastic middle school in Monkseaton, seeking a new SEND Support Assistant to work with children aged 9-13 within a mainstream school environment. The successful candidate will support pupils who may have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), helping them to access learning and reach their full potential.

This school's aim is to provide a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where every pupil feels valued, supported and encouraged to achieve their potential. The school is committed to ensuring that pupils receive the individual support they need to overcome barriers to learning and thrive both academically and personally.

SEND Support Assistant Key Responsibilities:

• Providing dedicated 1:1 and small group support for pupils who may have a range of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
• Supporting children with a range of additional needs, including Autism, ADHD, Speech and Language difficulties, SEMH, and other learning needs where required
• Adapting learning activities to meet the individual needs of pupils
• Building positive relationships with pupils that encourage engagement, confidence and resilience
• Working alongside teachers, the SENDCo and wider staff team to implement personalised learning and support strategies
• Promoting a calm, safe and inclusive learning environment where every pupil feels able to succeed
• Supporting pupils to remain focused, engaged and confident in their learning
• Encouraging pupils to develop their independence, social skills and self-confidence
• Providing reassurance and encouragement to pupils who may experience barriers to learning

SEND Support Assistant Person Specification:

• Recent experience working in an educational setting is desirable but not essential
• Experienced Support Workers who are open to working with children would also fit this role perfectly due to the needs of the pupils
• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND or additional needs would be desirable
• Solid numeracy and literacy skills
• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people and helping them overcome barriers to learning to reach their full potential
• A calm, patient and empathetic approach, with the ability to adapt to the individual needs of each pupil
• Ability to work proactively, both independently and as part of a team
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• An Enhanced DBS certificate on the update service (or willingness to apply)

Benefits:

• 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
• 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) with access to further accredited training through the Milk Academy
• FREE PSHE lesson plans and resources, designed by real teachers
• FREE Educator Wellbeing resources and access to our community hub – because we believe supported staff stay longer and make a bigger impact
• School Preparation Pack with handover notes and insightful school guides – so you walk in ready on day one
• 24/7 support from your personal consultant, directly through their work mobile phone to ensure your journey is personal

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.

Apply now by submitting your CV

(Ref. NEWC4)