Complex Needs Teaching Assistant

Engage Education is working in partnership with a welcoming specialist secondary setting in Crawley to recruit a compassionate and motivated Complex Needs Teaching Assistant. This is an excellent opportunity to support young people with a range of additional needs while gaining valuable experience within a highly supportive and inclusive environment.

The position is full-time and available for an immediate start on a temp-to-perm basis. The school provides a warm, inclusive and supportive environment where staff work collaboratively to ensure that every learner is able to access the curriculum and develop both academically and emotionally.

Our partner school is a specialist setting supporting pupils with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and a range of associated communication, social, emotional and learning needs. Many pupils benefit from highly personalised learning programmes, structured routines and consistent, positive support to help them achieve both academically and personally.

The school provides small class sizes, a calm and nurturing atmosphere, and a collaborative multidisciplinary team, enabling every pupil to develop confidence, independence and essential life skills. Staff work closely together to create an environment where every learner feels safe, valued and able to succeed.

As a Complex Needs Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils across the school.
• Support students with Autism and associated communication and learning needs to access the curriculum.
• Help implement individual learning and behaviour support plans.
• Encourage emotional regulation, confidence and independence throughout the school day.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils through patience, consistency and encouragement.
• Work closely with teachers and the wider support team to deliver personalised learning experiences.
• Contribute to a safe, structured and inclusive learning environment where every pupil can thrive.

This role would suit experienced SEND Teaching Assistants, graduates considering careers in education or psychology, or individuals from care, youth work or support work backgrounds who are looking to transition into specialist education.

We're looking for someone who has:

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND, Autism or complex additional needs.
• A patient, resilient and nurturing approach.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to remain calm, adaptable and proactive in a dynamic school environment.
• A genuine passion for supporting pupils to reach their full potential.
• Availability to work full-time and start as soon as possible.

• Earn a minimum of £500 per week
• Full-time and permanent opportunities available
• Opportunity to deliver small-group interventions and tailored support
• 1:1 support responsibilities with pupils who require additional help

• Paid in line with national pay scales (AWR compliant)
• Free CPD sessions to support your development
• A dedicated consultant offering guidance and support
• Referral scheme - earn a £50 Amazon voucher when a friend works 5 days
• Access to wellbeing support, travel discounts and retail benefits