Teaching Assistant (Reception Class) – Full Time Workington

The successful candidate will:

• Provide dedicated support for a Reception-aged pupil with complex additional needs.
• Support a child who is non-verbal and communicates through gestures, body language, and vocalisations.
• Assist with sensory-based learning and play activities tailored to the child’s individual needs and interests.
• Provide high levels of supervision throughout the school day.
• Support with personal care, including nappy changing.
• Encourage engagement in classroom activities, routines, and transitions.
• Help create a calm, positive, and nurturing learning environment.
• Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO, parents, and external professionals to ensure consistency of support.
• Promote the child’s wellbeing, development, and inclusion within the school community.

About the Child

The pupil:

• Is currently in Reception.
• Is non-verbal and communicates through body language and sounds.
• Has severe and complex needs and requires significant support throughout the school day.
• Benefits from sensory and exploratory activities.
• Has a tendency to mouth objects and therefore requires close supervision to ensure their safety.
• Is currently in nappies and requires support with personal care.
• Is a lovely child who does not typically display physical aggression.
• Requires a patient, understanding, and highly supportive approach.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants should have:

• Recent experience working within a school, nursery, early years, or SEN setting.
• Experience supporting children with additional needs, autism, developmental delay, or complex needs.
• A calm, patient, and caring nature.
• The ability to build positive relationships with children, staff, and families.
• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional educational needs.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Compliance Requirements

All applicants will be required to complete our full vetting and compliance process, including:

• Enhanced DBS Check
• Recent, relevant references
• Right to Work checks
• Safeguarding and compliance checks in line with DfE guidance

About Hannett Hale Recruitment

Hannett Hale Recruitment is an independent, bespoke education recruitment agency supporting schools across Cumbria and Lancashire. We pride ourselves on delivering a friendly, honest, and professional service, ensuring both our schools and candidates receive the highest levels of support.

If you are a caring and committed Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding full-time opportunity where you can make a genuine difference to a child’s school experience, we would love to hear from you.

To apply or find out more, please contact Hannett Hale Recruitment today.