EYFS SEN ARP Teaching Assistant

Location: Hitchin Hertfordshire
Role Type: Full-Time Term-Time Only
Salary:FTE
Start Date: ASAP

About the School

Our school in Hitchin is a well-established primary school with a strong reputation for inclusion and academic excellence. We pride ourselves on offering an environment where every child regardless of ability is encouraged to thrive socially emotionally and academically. The school caters to children from EYFS through Key Stage 2 with specialist ARP provisions for pupils with autism spectrum disorder ADHD and complex learning needs.

Our EYFS classrooms focus on play-based learning and early development skills nurturing curiosity confidence and communication in children aged 35. The ARP provision provides a structured supportive environment with small-group and one-to-one learning opportunities tailored to the unique needs of pupils with SEND ensuring they can access the curriculum successfully.

We value a child-centered approach encouraging pupils to develop independence resilience and social skills. Our dedicated team of teaching staff SENCO and support staff work together to implement effective strategies for learning and behaviour creating a culture where children feel safe understood and motivated.

Role Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistant to work across our EYFS classrooms and ARP provision. This role will involve providing direct support to pupils with SEN including autism ADHD speech and language difficulties and learning delays as well as assisting in mainstream EYFS classes.

The successful candidate will work closely with teachers and SENCO to deliver targeted interventions support differentiated learning and manage behaviour positively. You will assist with planning implementing and monitoring learning activities that engage children build confidence and promote academic and social development.

This position is ideal for someone who is flexible patient and passionate about inclusive education with experience supporting children with SEND SEMH challenges and complex needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with SEN including ASD ADHD and social-emotional difficulties

• Assist teachers in lesson planning preparation and classroom management

• Support the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) Behaviour Support Plans and personalised learning programmes

• Encourage positive behaviour self-regulation and resilience in pupils

• Support EYFS play-based learning promoting communication problem-solving and early academic skills

• Aid pupils in transitions between ARP units and mainstream classes

• Observe record and report pupil progress behaviour and achievements to teachers and SENCO

• Assist with assessments exams and school-wide monitoring activities adapting support as required

• Participate in staff training workshops and professional development focused on EYFS SEND and ARP strategies

• Work collaboratively with colleagues parents and external agencies to ensure a consistent supportive approach to learning and behaviour

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience working in EYFS primary or SEN/ARP settings supporting children with autism ADHD or complex learning needs

• Relevant qualifications such as Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant NCFE Support Work in Schools CACHE or equivalent

• Strong understanding of child development SEND strategies and positive behaviour management

• Ability to remain calm patient and adaptable in challenging situations

• Excellent communication interpersonal and teamwork skills

• Knowledge of safeguarding child protection and health and safety procedures

• Commitment to inclusive education and promoting a positive school culture

Training and Professional Development

Staff in this role will benefit from:

• Comprehensive induction and ongoing training on EYFS SEND and ARP best practices

• Workshops on autism awareness ADHD support strategies social communication interventions and sensory needs

• Mentorship from experienced SEN and EYFS practitioners

• Opportunities for career progression within EYFS ARP or mainstream teaching pathways

• Participation in collaborative planning sessions and professional learning communities

Why Work With Us

By joining our school in Hitchin you will:

• Make a real impact in the lives of children with SEND helping them reach their full potential

• Work in a supportive inclusive and collaborative environment with experienced colleagues

• Access training and development opportunities tailored to EYFS and SEN/ARP provision

• Be part of a school that prioritises wellbeing inclusion and high-quality teaching

• Build meaningful relationships with pupils parents and the wider school community

• Develop your professional skills while contributing to a positive child-centered learning culture

Our school is committed to ensuring that all children feel valued supported and empowered and that staff have the resources and guidance necessary to make a difference every day. This role offers the opportunity to grow professionally while working in a rewarding and dynamic educational environment.

Commitment to Safeguarding

The safety and welfare of our pupils are paramount. All staff are required to:

• Hold an enhanced DBS check

• Follow safeguarding policies and procedures at all times

• Promote a safe respectful and inclusive learning environment