About this role
Specialist Teaching and Learning Assistant: Job Description and Person Specification
Our Vision
At Embark, our Collective Commitment to Inclusion means every child is known, valued, and supported to succeed. As a Specialist Teaching & Learning Assistant, you will bring deep expertise, compassion and skill to removing barriers to learning for children with additional and complex needs.
Purpose of the Role
To provide specialist, targeted support for pupils with SEND, SEMH, communication needs or other barriers to learning. You will work with a high level of autonomy within your specialist area, contributing to planning, delivery, assessment and review of interventions, while remaining under the overall direction of a teacher or SENCo.
This role bridges advanced classroom support and specialist provision, without carrying the responsibilities of whole-class teaching.
Key Responsibilities
Specialist Support for Pupils
Deliver targeted interventions for individuals and small groups based on identified needs (e.g. SEND, SEMH, communication, cognition, behaviour)Adapt and modify learning activities to enable progress for pupils working significantly below age-related expectationsSupport pupils with complex needs, including personal care, regulation, communication systems or medical routines where requiredAct as a key adult for identified pupils, supporting emotional security, independence and inclusionPlanning, Assessment & Review
Contribute to the development, implementation and review of EHCPs, IEPs, behaviour plans and provision mapsObserve, assess and record pupil progress using agreed tools and systemsUse assessment information to adapt interventions and recommend next stepsProvide clear, timely feedback to teachers, SENCo and families as appropriateInclusion, Behaviour & Wellbeing
Implement and model inclusive practice aligned to Embark’s Collective CommitmentApply specialist behaviour and regulation strategies consistently and safelySupport pupils through transitions, change and emotionally demanding situationsUse de-escalation, relational and restorative approaches as agreed by the schoolProfessional Collaboration
Work closely with teachers, SENCo, external professionals and familiesShare specialist knowledge and model effective practice for colleaguesSupport and mentor less experienced TAs within your area of expertiseContribute to multi-agency meetings when appropriateSafeguarding & Safety
Maintain the highest standards of safeguarding and professional conductFollow all health, safety, moving & handling and medical protocolsRecognise and report concerns promptly in line with policyProfessional Development
Maintain and deepen specialist knowledge through training and reflective practiceContribute to Embark’s wider learning culture and inclusive practiceSupport the development of specialist provision across the school
Person Specification
Essential
Experience
Significant experience supporting children with additional or complex needsProven experience delivering targeted interventions or specialist supportSkills & Attributes
Strong emotional intelligence and resilienceAbility to work independently within a defined specialist roleExcellent communication with pupils, staff and familiesReflective, adaptable and solution-focusedKnowledge
Secure understanding of SEND, child development and inclusive strategiesAwareness of safeguarding, behaviour support and risk managementAbility to assess progress and adapt provision accordinglyQualifications
GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent)Level 3 qualification in education support or relevant specialist area or equivalent experienceWillingness to undertake further specialist trainingDesirable
Specialist qualifications or training (SEND, SEMH, ASD, communication, behaviour, nurture)Experience of mentoring other staffExperience working with external professionals or agencies
We welcome visits to view our school, please contact Tracey to arrange a tour.