Complex Needs TA

Salary/Rate:£85-£100
Job type:Contract
Town/City:Havering
County:North East London
Type of Role:Teaching Assistant/Learning Support Assistant
Job ref:9693
Post Date:10.06.25
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Meet Our Recruiter

About the Role

Complex Needs Teaching Assistant
Location: Barking and Dagenham
Pay: £85–£100 per day (PAYE)
Contract: Full-time, term-time | Long-term role

“Not all classrooms speak in words — some speak in stillness, gestures, and trust.”

In a specialist school in Barking and Dagenham, there’s a space where education is about far more than lessons. It’s about creating connection, consistency, and comfort for pupils with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) — many of whom are non-verbal, have complex medical needs, and communicate in deeply individual ways.

Here, learning is quiet and sensory-led. You’ll support students by tuning in to what’s unspoken — a flicker of the eyes, a small gesture, a sound — and responding with presence and care. It’s not about rushing or reacting, but about being a steady, trusted guide in a world that can often feel overwhelming.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Supporting students 1:1 or in small groups alongside a collaborative, compassionate team.

  • Facilitating sensory learning and therapeutic activities tailored to each individual.

  • Using tools like eye gaze, PECS, switches, and visual timetables to aid communication.

  • Assisting with personal care, including toileting, feeding, and hoisting (training provided).

  • Helping students feel emotionally and physically safe through calm, consistent support.

Who This Role Is For:

  • No formal experience required — just emotional maturity, empathy, and a willingness to learn.

  • Especially suitable for those with backgrounds in care, support work, youth work, or SEND (though not essential).

  • Ideal for people who are calm, observant, nurturing, and committed to making a difference.

  • Reflective individuals who value teamwork and want to grow in a supportive environment.

What You’ll Find at This School:
A school that values its staff just as much as its students. With thoughtful leadership, strong team culture, and ongoing professional development, you’ll never be left to figure things out alone — you’ll be guided, heard, and supported.

Why Join Through Parker Smith Inclusion?
We specialise in SEND roles and pride ourselves on honest, thoughtful, and values-driven recruitment.

  • PAYE only – no umbrella companies, no hidden fees

  • Tailored, long-term placements with ongoing support

  • A trusted, five-star rated team that truly understands SEND settings

  • Focused on wellbeing, fit, and long-term satisfaction — not just filling roles

Interested in learning more?
Send your CV to Elisha at elisha@psinclusion.co.uk to explore whether this could be the right next step for you.

Sometimes the most meaningful impact happens in the quietest classrooms. If that resonates with you — we’d love to hear from you.

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