SEND Teaching Assistant – Primary

About the Role

Gildersome Primary School is seeking an experienced, enthusiastic and highly motivated Teaching Assistant to join its pastoral team or provide general classroom support. Starting in January 2027, this is a 27.5-hour-per-week, one-year fixed-term position supporting pupils across Early Years, KS1 and KS2.

Working under the direction of the SENDCo and teaching staff, you will help deliver high-quality learning and teaching for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities. The role includes one-to-one support for children with additional needs, with a particular focus on social, emotional and mental health needs.

The salary is £14,735 to £15,686, payable on scale A1-B1. The closing date is 13 November 2026 at 12pm, with interviews expected during the week commencing 16 November 2026. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils with SEND under the direction of the SENDCo and teaching staff.

• Provide one-to-one support for children with additional needs, particularly those with SEMH needs.

• Encourage pupils to participate fully in the academic and social life of the school.

• Deliver Mathematics and Literacy intervention programmes.

• Help improve learning outcomes for individual pupils and groups.

• Support pupils who display challenging behaviour using positive, consistent approaches.

• Communicate effectively and professionally with pupils, colleagues and parents.

Candidates should have experience of working with or caring for children, including providing one-to-one support. You will need strong literacy and numeracy skills, an understanding of classroom responsibilities and safeguarding procedures, and high expectations for achievement and behaviour. The ability to work independently and collaboratively is essential.

What We Offer

• Motivated, enthusiastic pupils with high standards of behaviour.

• A well-equipped school building with good facilities.

• Supportive, hard-working colleagues and governors who care about the school and its community.

• Opportunities for relevant professional development and experience across the primary age range.

• The opportunity to visit the school before applying.

About the School

Gildersome Primary School is a local authority-maintained village primary school in Leeds, West Yorkshire. It educates approximately 352 pupils aged 3 to 11 across Early Years, KS1 and KS2.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Recruitment checks may include DBS, medical, online and social media, prohibition, right-to-work and reference checks. The school values diversity and particularly welcomes applications from under-represented groups.