Specialist Teaching Assistant (1:1 Support) – Primary School, Ellesmere Port

Location: Ellesmere Port Role: Specialist Teaching Assistant (1:1 Support) Start Date: 1st September 2026 End Date: 18th December 2026 Hours: Monday to Friday, Afternoons Only Contract: Fixed-Term About the RoleA welcoming primary school in Ellesmere Port is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Specialist Teaching Assistant to provide dedicated 1:1 support for a child entering Year 3 in September 2026. This is a rewarding but highly challenging role requiring a resilient, compassionate and knowledgeable practitioner who has substantial experience supporting children with complex additional needs and behaviours. The pupil has diagnoses of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance profile), ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and is currently on the waiting list for a specialist provision placement. The child has a history of significant dysregulation and has previously experienced exclusion from school settings. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in helping the child access learning, regulate emotions, develop positive relationships and experience success within the school environment. Key Responsibilities • Provide consistent 1:1 support throughout each afternoon session. • Build a trusting and positive relationship with the pupil. • Implement strategies that are effective for children presenting with a PDA profile. • Support emotional regulation and reduce anxiety-driven behaviours. • Liaise closely with the class teacher, SENDCo, parents/carers and external professionals. • Adapt activities and expectations to meet the child's individual needs. • Promote engagement with learning whilst maintaining the child's dignity and self-esteem. • Complete relevant observations and behaviour records as required. • Support transitions and respond calmly to challenging situations. The Ideal Candidate Will Have • Proven experience working with children with ASD, ADHD and PDA. • A strong understanding of trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming approaches. • Experience supporting pupils who display highly challenging behaviours. • Excellent de-escalation and relationship-building skills. • Patience, resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure. • The ability to work independently whilst following guidance from the school and SEND team. • Relevant Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent experience. Essential Requirements • Previous experience in a specialist, SEND or alternative provision setting. • Strong knowledge of effective behaviour support strategies. • Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one). • Right to work in the UK. • Two recent references supporting suitability for this type of role. What the School Offers • Supportive leadership and SEND team. • Opportunity to make a significant difference to a child's educational journey. • Ongoing support throughout the placement. • Collaborative working environment. This position would suit an experienced Teaching Assistant, SEND Support Worker, Behaviour Mentor or Specialist Learning Support Assistant with a strong background in supporting children with complex needs. To apply, please submit your CV outlining your relevant experience supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD, PDA and challenging behaviour.