1:1Teaching Assistants and MDSA Roles

Job Title: 1:1 Teaching Assistant and MDSA

Start Date: ASAP

Closing Date: 2nd December 2025
Interview Date: 8th December 2025

Hours:             SEN 1:1 – two roles - 25.5hrs and 26.25hrs term time only (would consider job shares)

            MDSA  - two roles - 5hrs and 6.25hrs term time only

Salary:             SEN1:1 - Somerset Pay Spine Point 4-6 (£25185 - £25989 FTE)

MDSA – Somerset Pay Spine Point 2 (£24413 FTE)

Contract: Fixed term until 31^st August 2026 depending on funding

Responsible to: Headteacher/Senior Leadership Team

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary and Nursery School is looking to recruit into their hardworking and friendly team to support the development of highly inclusive provision for pupils with SEND and additional needs.

We are seeking dedicated and compassionate Teaching Assistants to join our team, supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis. The roles involve providing tailored support to pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN), ensuring they can access the curriculum and thrive in a positive learning environment.

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference by helping our pupils to access learning, develop communication skills, and thrive in a nurturing environment.

We are looking to recruit teaching assistants for two pupils in classroom-based roles as well as MDSA support over lunchtimes. We are happy to consider job share arrangements as part of this provision.

These are fixed-term roles, until 31^st August 2026 subject to ongoing funding. The contract will continue for as long as funding is available or the child leaving the school.

Desirable skills/experience:     

·       Experience of work with young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and social and communication needs. 

·       Experience of working with children with Speech & Language needs, delivering plans and working alongside professionals.

·       A basic or extended knowledge of Makaton and/or an understanding of the use of technology to support communication"

·       Experience of working in an educational setting. 

·       Supportive of mental health needs within children.   

·       Ability to work in a team to support and create the best experience for children to enable them to meet their full potential.     

·       Be flexible to do a range of tasks and to use own initiative when required.   

·       Knowledge of how to incorporate visual and concrete resources into planning to support learning would be of use.    

·       Good literacy and numeracy skills (GCSE or ‘O’ Level Grade C or above or equivalent).   

·       Work within, and act upon, the advice of class teacher and SENCo.   

·       Be an excellent communicator and team player.   

·       Work within our school’s rigorous safeguarding policies and procedures.   

·       Remain calm, confidential and professional in all situations.    

What we can offer you:

·       Engaged and enthusiastic pupils who are 'proud to belong' to our school and enjoy learning in a stimulating environment.

·       A forward thinking, proactive Trust that is dedicated to the success of its pupils and staff.

·       A dynamic and collaborative team of leadership who are dedicated and committed to the success of pupils and staff alike.

Visits to the school are most welcome, please telephone 01278 784641 to book an appointment.

The Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust (DCET) is committed to safeguarding and protecting the welfare of children.  All staff are expected to share this commitment.  The post is subject to an enhanced disclosure application and satisfactory references.