SEND Teaching Assistant

Job Title: SEND Teaching Assistant (1:1) – ASD/PDA Support (Fixed Term)
Grade: A2
Location: Christow Community Primary School
Working Pattern: 15 hours per week
9.00am – 12.00pm, Monday – Friday      Term-time only
Contract: Fixed term, linked to a child’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC)

We are seeking to appoint a dedicated and compassionate SEND Teaching Assistant to work on a 1:1 basis with a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). This is a rewarding opportunity for an individual who is patient, flexible and committed to meeting the needs of children with additional and complex needs.

Christow Primary School is a very special place to work. Our popular school is situated in an attractive elevated position at the heart of Christow Parish and enjoys picturesque grounds, with a forest school site, adventure playground and gardening area. Our dedicated team of staff and governors work together to create a school where there is a real sense of community and where learners and staff can flourish. Our aims are straightforward. We strive to develop the intellectual, spiritual, moral, social and cultural needs of each child through inspirational teaching and opportunities. We value the positive and sustained support of the parents to achieve this. Please come and visit us and see for yourself! Please contact Amy Yeo, Headteacher, at reception@christowprimary.org.uk to arrange a visit.

The successful candidate will:

• Have experience of working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder; experience or understanding of PDA approaches would be highly desirable

• Demonstrate excellent communication skills, building effective relationships with pupils, parents and staff

• Be skilled in supporting children with additional educational and behavioural needs using a calm, flexible and child-centred approach

• Show commitment to raising standards and enabling children to make good progress within the curriculum

• Be kind, patient, resilient and enthusiastic, with a creative and reflective mindset

• Be able to adapt provision responsively, using low-demand and relational approaches appropriate for a child with PDA

We can offer you:

• Motivated and enthusiastic pupils

• School and Trust-wide support and CPD opportunities, including SEND-focused development

• Dedicated and committed colleagues

• Commitment to a broad and balanced curriculum

• A supportive, community-focused school environment

We welcome applications from highly motivated individuals who will work effectively as part of our excellent team and contribute to wider school life, building positive relationships with all members of our community.

Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory Enhanced DBS and reference checks. Christow Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults.

Education South West is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post. This includes checks with past employers, an online check of publicly available information, including social media, and an enhanced disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service 

Closing date: Friday 27th February 2026
Interview date: Tuesday 3rd March 2026