Post 16 Complex Needs Teaching Assistant

Salary/Rate:£85 - £100 daily PAYE
Job type:Contract
Town/City:Havering
County:North East London
Type of Role:Teaching Assistant/Learning Support Assistant
Job ref:9553
Post Date:28.05.25
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Meet Our Recruiter

About the Role

Post-16 Teaching Assistant – Complex Needs
Location: East London
Pay: £85–£100 per day (PAYE)
Contract: Full-time | Temp-to-perm opportunity

"Every small step towards independence can be life-changing — and you could be part of that journey."

In a forward-thinking specialist school in East London, young people aged 16 to 19 are being supported not only to learn but to live — gaining the confidence, skills, and resilience they’ll need to thrive beyond the classroom.

These students may have complex needs, including physical disabilities, neurodivergence, and non-verbal communication. But they are also creative, curious, and full of individuality. This role is about seeing the person first — and helping them take real, practical steps towards a more independent future.


What Learning Looks Like Here:

It might be:

  • Navigating public transport with support

  • Preparing a meal from scratch

  • Managing sensory input in unfamiliar spaces

  • Expressing needs and preferences through AAC, signs, or symbols

  • Building the confidence to say, “I can do this” — even in small ways


What You'll Be Doing Day-to-Day:

  • Supporting a small group of students on bespoke pathways

  • Facilitating life skills sessions like cooking, shopping, and budgeting

  • Using communication tools such as Makaton, AAC devices, or visual aids

  • Providing personal care (feeding, toileting, hoisting — full training given)

  • Encouraging self-regulation and supporting emotional wellbeing

  • Being a consistent, understanding presence in each young person’s journey


Who This Role Could Be Perfect For:

  • Someone with experience in SEND, care work, or youth services

  • Or someone new to the field, but driven by a clear sense of purpose

  • A calm, empathetic individual who responds thoughtfully under pressure

  • Someone who values quiet progress and meaningful moments

  • A team player who believes in inclusion, dignity, and possibility

This isn’t just another classroom — it’s a stepping stone into adulthood. You’ll be helping young people explore who they are and what’s possible for them beyond school.


Why Choose This School:

  • A collaborative, person-centred approach to education and care

  • A nurturing, well-resourced environment designed for complex needs

  • Excellent training and support from a team that values your growth

  • Real opportunities to build a future in education, therapy, or SEND


Why Parker Smith Inclusion?

We specialise in SEND and take pride in connecting passionate individuals with meaningful, long-term roles. We listen to what matters to you and support you throughout your journey.

  • No umbrella payroll – always PAYE, with no hidden costs

  • Specialist roles you won’t find elsewhere

  • Honest, supportive advice from people who understand the sector

  • A focus on values-led recruitment — because the right fit matters


Interested in learning more?

Email Elisha at elisha@psinclusion.co.uk to apply or to have a confidential conversation about whether this is the right step for you.

Sometimes the smallest breakthroughs leave the deepest impact. If you’re ready to support that kind of progress, we’d love to hear from you.

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