1:1 SEND Support Assistant | Secondary School

Are you an empathetic, patient, and dedicated learning support professional looking to make a direct, tangible difference in a young person's education? A welcoming and inclusive secondary school in Preston is seeking a committed 1:1 SEND Support Assistant to provide dedicated, individualised support for a Key Stage 3 / Key Stage 4 student with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). In this vital role, you will be the student's consistent champion-breaking down classroom tasks, managing sensory needs, supporting communication, and fostering the pupil's confidence, independence, and social inclusion across the school day. Core Responsibilities Targeted 1:1 Academic Support: Accompany the pupil to timetabled lessons, differentiating learning materials, breaking instructions into manageable steps, and keeping the student engaged. EHCP Target Implementation: Work alongside the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) and subject teachers to deliver specific targets outlined in the student's EHCP. Sensory & Physical Support: Implement agreed sensory diet strategies, facilitate movement breaks, and help create a calm, structured learning environment. Communication Assistance: Support speech, language, and communication needs using visual timetables, social stories, or assistive technology where required. Emotional Regulation & De-escalation: Recognise early signs of sensory overload, frustration, or anxiety, using gentle de-escalation strategies to keep the student calm and safe. Progress Tracking: Maintain brief daily notes on the student's engagement, milestones, and triggers to inform weekly reviews and annual EHCP meetings. Essential Requirements & Experience SEND Experience: Direct experience supporting children or young people with additional needs such as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD), Speech, Language & Communication Needs (SLCN), or SEMH. Calm & Encouraging Nature: Strong relationship-building skills, infinite patience, and a positive mindset that encourages student independence rather than over-reliance. Adaptability: The ability to modify resources on the fly to match the student's pace and learning style. Relevant Qualifications: Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification, Health & Social Care certificate, or a relevant degree (e.g., Psychology, Education, Childhood Studies) is preferred. Specialist Training (Desirable): Prior training in Team-Teach, Makaton, PECS, or Autism Awareness is an advantage. Safer Recruitment & Compliance Full right to work in the UK. Enhanced Child Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service (or readiness to apply for a new check). Complete 10-year work and education history with satisfactory, verifiable professional references. Adherence to Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) statutory guidelines. What the School Offers Comprehensive guidance and regular check-ins with an experienced, supportive SENCO and SEND team. Access to fully funded SEND-specific professional development and training courses. Convenient central Preston location with free staff parking and direct links to Preston railway station and local bus routes. A balanced term-time-only contract with weekends and all school holidays free. How to Apply To apply for this 1:1 SEND Support Assistant role in Preston, please submit your updated CV detailing your relevant experience supporting young people with additional needs