SEN Teaching Assistant - Primary Complex Needs School

The smallest steps can be the biggest achievements — and the right support can change a child’s entire journey.

A specialist primary SEN school in Sunderland is seeking a SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils aged 5–11 with complex needs, including Autism, severe learning difficulties (SLD), sensory processing needs and communication challenges.

The school is built around a nurturing, therapeutic approach, where pupils are supported to develop communication, independence and emotional regulation in a safe and structured environment.

Location: Sunderland
Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm | Monday–Friday | Term Time Only

Daily Expectations & Routine

• Staff arrive for an 8:30am start
• Pupils follow highly structured routines supported by visual timetables
• The day includes a mix of academic learning, sensory sessions and life skills activities
• Breaks and lunch are fully supported and structured
• The school day finishes at 4:00pm, with time for staff reflection and preparation

Routine, patience and consistency are essential within this setting.

The Role

As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
• Assist with communication strategies such as PECS, visual aids and basic Makaton
• Support sensory activities and engagement-based learning
• Help pupils regulate emotions and transitions throughout the day
• Work closely with teachers and therapists

Some pupils may require personal care and additional physical support, depending on their needs.

The Pupils

Pupils within this setting may present with:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
• Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD)
• Sensory processing needs
• Limited verbal communication
• Developmental delays

The focus is on progress at an individual level, rather than traditional academic outcomes.

Experience Requirements

Experience is desirable but not essential.

The school welcomes applicants who:

• Have worked in care, support or early years settings
• Have personal or professional experience supporting additional needs
• Are passionate about working with children
• Are willing to learn and develop within SEN

Those without direct experience may start on a trainee scale, with full support provided.

Behaviour & Environment

• The environment is calm, nurturing and structured
• Behaviour is managed through routine, reassurance and consistency
• Staff use positive reinforcement and clear communication strategies
• Support is always available from senior staff

Dress Code

• Practical, comfortable clothing
• Smart-casual appearance
• Suitable for sensory and hands-on activities
• Comfortable footwear essential

What We Are Looking For

• Individuals passionate about the education system
• A genuine interest in supporting children with additional needs
• Patience, empathy and a calm nature
• Willingness to learn and adapt
• Strong teamwork and communication skills

What’s in It for You?

• Experience in a highly supportive SEN environment
• Opportunity to develop skills in communication and complex needs
• A rewarding and meaningful career pathway
• Weekly PAYE pay

We do not use umbrella companies, ensuring your pay is transparent and fair.

Apply Today

If you are looking to make a real impact in a specialist SEN setting, apply today to find out more about this opportunity in Sunderland.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details.

All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.

Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service.

Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.

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