Location: Dover, Kent
Salary: Competitive - dependent on experience
Contract: Long-term Temporary (minimum 12 months) - Potential Permanent Opportunity

Are you an experienced Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding opportunity where you can make a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people?

Classroom Support is currently recruiting for a dedicated, enthusiastic and resilient Teaching Assistant to join a specialist SEN school in the Dover area. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a committed and supportive staff team, working within a nurturing environment that places equal importance on academic progress, emotional development and personal achievement.

The school supports children and young people aged 6-16 with a range of complex needs, including Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties, Autism (ASC/ASD), ADHD, attachment difficulties and associated learning and behavioural needs.

Initially, you will be providing dedicated support to a named pupil, helping them access learning, develop positive relationships and achieve their individual potential. You will also play an important role in supporting their wider emotional, social and personal development.

This is a long-term opportunity, initially offered on a temporary basis for a minimum of 12 months, with the potential to become permanent as the school continues to grow.

What does the role involve?

• Providing dedicated 1:1 support to a named pupil with complex learning and behavioural needs.

• Supporting pupils with SEMH, ASD, ADHD and associated additional needs.

• Helping pupils access the curriculum and engage positively with classroom activities.

• Supporting emotional regulation, social development and positive behaviour.

• Building trusting relationships and providing consistent, positive encouragement.

• Managing challenging situations calmly and confidently.

• Working closely with teaching staff and other professionals to support individual learning and development.

• Contributing to a nurturing, structured and therapeutic learning environment.

• Supporting pupils beyond the classroom to ensure a positive all-round educational experience.

What we''re looking for:

• Previous experience working as a Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant or within a similar support role.

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEN, particularly SEMH, ASD or ADHD.

• Confidence supporting pupils with complex behavioural and learning needs.

• A high level of emotional intelligence, patience and resilience.

• The ability to remain calm and consistent when managing challenging behaviour.

• A flexible approach and the ability to adapt to changing situations.

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

• A genuine passion for supporting young people and helping them achieve their potential.

• GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C/4 or above, or equivalent qualifications.

Experience within a specialist SEN school, alternative provision or similar setting would be highly advantageous.

We are particularly interested in candidates who are committed, adaptable and passionate about providing young people with the support and encouragement they need to thrive.

What''s on offer?

• Long-term, consistent employment opportunity.

• Initial temporary contract of at least 12 months.

• Potential for a permanent position as the school continues to expand.

• The opportunity to work within a dedicated and supportive staff team.

• A comprehensive induction and ongoing support programme.

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

• The chance to make a meaningful difference to the lives of young people with additional needs.

Safeguarding & Compliance

Classroom Support is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This role requires a strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection.

Successful applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including:

• An Enhanced DBS check with Children''s Barred List (registered on the Update Service), or willingness to obtain one.

• Professional reference checks.

• Right to work verification.

• Any additional pre-employment checks required in line with Department for Education guidance.

Why Join Classroom Support?

As an ethical, independent, and inclusive education recruitment agency, we are committed to placing exceptional education professionals into rewarding roles across Kent. We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships and supporting our candidates throughout every stage of their career.

Apply Today

If you''re passionate about supporting children with Special Educational Needs and want to make a genuine difference every day, we''d love to hear from you.

Click ''Apply Now'' to submit your up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch to discuss the role and your next career opportunity.

If this position isn''t quite right for you, we also work with a wide range of Mainstream and SEN Primary and Secondary schools across Kent and may have another role that''s a perfect fit.