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Are you a resilient, empathetic, and experienced SEN professional looking to make a genuine difference in young people's lives? We are seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to join a vibrant Alternative Provision in Plymouth. This role is not your average classroom job. You will be supporting vulnerable pupils who have slipped through the cracks of mainstream education, many of whom display challenging behaviour, complex social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs, or trauma. You will work closely with teaching staff to re-engage these students, de-escalate challenging situations, and help them build the confidence they need to succeed. Because community access and off-site learning are big parts of this role, a full UK driving license is essential.
Job Responsibility
Providing 1:1 and small group support to pupils with complex SEN and SEMH needs
Using proven de-escalation techniques to manage and redirect challenging behaviour safely
Assisting with off-site educational trips and community-based learning (driving required)
Building strong, trusted relationships with students who may be defensive or disengaged
Creating a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment
Requirements
Proven experience working with children or young adults with SEN and challenging behaviour is essential
Experience in PRUs, Alternative Provisions, or youth work is highly advantageous
A full, clean UK driving license is essential for this role
A thick skin, a calm demeanour under pressure, and a non-judgemental attitude
Reliability
Consistency is key for these students
we need someone committed to the 08:30 - 15:30 routine
ability to track progression in attainment
background in youth work
behaviour management
building relationships
classroom management
communication
de-escalation techniques
empathy
experience in administering medication
experience in managing challenging behaviour
experience with autism spectrum disorders
experience with learning difficulties
experience with social emotional mental health
inclusiveness
manual handling
marking
mentor experience
personal care experience
planning
resilience
restraint training
speech and language therapy experience
Nice to have
Experience in PRUs
Experience in Alternative Provisions
Experience in youth work
What we offer
Flexibility with both long-term block bookings and day-to-day contracts to suit your lifestyle
Competitive daily rates paid weekly
The chance to make a profound, visible impact on a young person's future