Job Description

Speech and Language Teaching Assistant

Are you passionate about helping children find their voice, connect with others, and thrive?
We're looking for two caring and committed individuals to support pupils with Autism, speech and language needs, and learning differences in a specialist school in Leeds this September.

Whether you already have SEND experience or are exploring a new path into education, this is a rewarding opportunity to make a lasting difference.

The Role

As a Speech and Language Teaching Assistant, you'll work closely with teachers and the school's Speech and Language Therapist to help children aged 4-16 develop their communication and confidence.

Using tools such as PECS, Makaton, and visual timetables, you'll support pupils in expressing themselves, building social skills, and engaging more fully in school life.

This is a structured, nurturing environment, where you'll provide 1:1 and small-group support, creating predictable routines that promote emotional safety and learning.

Key Responsibilities

Support pupils' speech, language, and communication development Use alternative communication methods to help children express themselves Encourage social interaction and emotional regulation Follow therapy-informed strategies tailored to individual needs Support engagement, independence, and progress in the classroom Work closely with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure consistency

Who This Role Suits

This role is perfect for:

Psychology, Education, or Speech & Language graduates Teaching Assistants or Support Workers with SEND experience Parents or carers with lived experience of supporting communication needs Anyone looking to gain valuable experience before pursuing careers in therapy, SEN teaching, or child development
You'll bring:

A calm, patient, and empathetic nature Curiosity and enthusiasm for speech and language development (full training provided) Strong communication and teamwork skills A belief in inclusive education and neurodiversity

The School

This warm, well-resourced SEN school in Leeds supports pupils with Autism, social communication needs, and learning difficulties. The staff team is compassionate, collaborative, and committed to every child's potential. You'll be supported with ongoing CPD and surrounded by experienced professionals who share your passion.

Hours & Start Date

Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 3:30pm (term-time only) Full-time and part-time roles available September start

The Benefits

Competitive pay Family-friendly hours - no evenings or weekends Long-term roles with the potential to go permanent
If you want to help children feel heard, understood, and empowered, this could be the perfect next step.

Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do, and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such, we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education, you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temp to perm

Pay: 90.00-105.00 per day

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Work Location: In person