EYFS SEN Teaching Assistant

Location: Watford
Start Date: ASAP
Contract: Full-time
Pay: £85–£115 per day, dependent on experience

Supply Desk are currently seeking a caring, patient, and experienced SEN Teaching Assistant to join a welcoming and inclusive school in the Watford area.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience supporting children with Down syndrome and a genuine passion for helping pupils with additional needs develop their confidence, independence and communication skills.

You will work closely with class teachers, SENCOs and other support staff to provide tailored 1:1 and small-group support, adapting activities and learning strategies to meet the individual needs of pupils. The successful candidate will have a nurturing, encouraging and proactive approach, helping children access the curriculum, develop essential life skills and reach their full potential.

Please note that this role involves providing personal care, including supporting pupils with toileting, changing, washing and personal hygiene. Candidates must be comfortable carrying out these responsibilities in a sensitive, respectful and dignified manner, ensuring pupils'' privacy and wellbeing are maintained at all times.

• Provide dedicated support to pupils with Down syndrome, adapting learning activities to suit their individual abilities and developmental needs.

• Deliver consistent 1:1 and small-group support to encourage learning, participation and independence.

• Support pupils with speech, language and communication development.

• Assist with classroom activities, literacy, numeracy and other curriculum-based learning.

• Provide personal care where required, including toileting, changing, washing and maintaining personal hygiene.

• Follow individual care plans and school procedures when delivering personal care, maintaining pupils'' dignity, privacy and comfort.

• Encourage social interaction, confidence-building and positive relationships with peers.

• Support pupils with developing fine motor skills, coordination and everyday life skills.

• Promote positive behaviour, emotional wellbeing and independence.

• Monitor and communicate pupil progress, development and wellbeing.

• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, parents/carers and external professionals.

• Maintain a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment.

• Promote safeguarding and the wellbeing of all pupils at all times.

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with Down syndrome is essential.

• Understanding of the learning, communication and developmental needs associated with Down syndrome.

• Experience delivering 1:1 SEN support within a school or educational setting.

• Must be comfortable and confident providing personal care, including toileting, changing and hygiene support.

• A patient, compassionate and nurturing approach.

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.

• Ability to adapt learning activities to meet individual needs.

• Good behaviour management and positive reinforcement skills.

• A genuine passion for supporting children''s learning, development and independence.

• Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding procedures.

• Previous experience within a primary school environment is desirable.

• Weekly payments.

• Ongoing support from experienced, local education consultants.

• A supportive team and working environment.

• Access to well-equipped school facilities.

• Opportunities for continued professional development, CPD and training.

• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement.

• Refer a Friend scheme.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant with a background in supporting children with Down syndrome who wants to make a meaningful difference to a pupil''s educational journey and personal development.

Apply today to begin your next opportunity in a Watford school!

We offer a £100 referral fee for successful referrals of friends or colleagues who complete five or more shifts.

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful candidates will be required to complete and maintain an enhanced DBS check throughout their employment and comply with safer recruitment standards.