This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who is committed to building trusting relationships, understanding individual needs, and helping a child thrive both academically and emotionally within a nurturing school environment.
Key Responsibilities
Provide consistent 1:1 support throughout the school day, adapting to the pupil's individual needs.
Develop a trusting, positive relationship that promotes emotional safety and wellbeing.
Use low-arousal, collaborative and flexible approaches that are appropriate for a child with a PDA profile.
Support learning through personalised strategies, adapting tasks and expectations where appropriate.
Help the pupil develop confidence, independence, communication and social skills.
Recognise signs of anxiety or dysregulation and respond calmly using agreed support strategies.
Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO, therapists and parents/carers to ensure a consistent approach.
Contribute to monitoring progress, recording observations and reviewing support plans.
Promote inclusion while respecting the child's individual communication and sensory needs.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
Experience working with children with Special Educational Needs, particularly Autism.
An understanding of, or willingness to learn about, PDA-informed approaches.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
A calm, patient and empathetic approach.
The ability to think creatively, adapt plans and respond flexibly to changing situations.
A positive attitude, resilience and a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs.
Experience in a primary school setting is desirable but not essential
Salary description
£16.90 - £17.90 per hour