SEN Teaching Assistant -EYFS

Abbey Hey Primary Group; Manchester; On-site; GBP 23,000; Full time

Job summary

A primary academy in Manchester is seeking an enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistant to support children in the Early Years Foundation Stage. The role involves working with children with special educational needs, adapting learning plans, and fostering an inclusive environment. Applicants should hold a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and have GCSEs in English and Mathematics. The position is full-time with a fixed-term contract until August 2026, offering opportunities for professional development and support in a vibrant school community.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Supportive leadership team

Access to health benefits package

Qualifications

• Experienced in supporting children with special educational needs (SEN).
• Ability to implement personalized learning plans effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills for communicating with children, parents, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Support children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) with SEN.
• Work closely with teachers to adapt learning activities.
• Build trusting relationships to promote engagement and inclusion.

Skills

Support children with SEN

Communication skills

Positive behavior management

Nurturing approach

Building trust with families

Education

Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or equivalent

GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English

GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Mathematics

Job description

Location Abbey Hey Primary Academy

As part of the United Learning Trust, Abbey Hey Academy is a larger than average sized primary school in the heart of Gorton, East Manchester. The school serves a vibrant and diverse community of learners. Abbey Hey is incredibly popular with local families and has very few places available along with long waiting lists for some year groups. In 2019, the school secured a ‘Good’ Ofsted judgement, details of which can be found on the school website. Abbey Hey are committed to delivering a broad and balanced curriculum; children undertake lots of educational visits and take part in a wide range of activities from football, choir, Eco club and dodgeball. Our vision is simple: to ensure children receive the best education that is available to enable them to become the very best that they can be. Abbey Hey Primary Academy is part of United Learning, a large, and growing, group of schools aiming to offer a life-changing education to children and young people across England. United Learning is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check. We always appoint on merit, and we are open to discussing flexible working options.

Job details

Contractual hours 37.5

Basis Full Time

Region Manchester

Job category/type All Primary Key Stages

Date posted 10/12/2025

Job reference REQ004372

SEN Teaching Assistant – EYFS

Location: Abbey Hey Primary Academy

Salary: £25,918.00 FTTE (£22,364.24 actual)

Contract type: Fixed Term until 31st August 2026 with the option to extend. Monday – Friday, term time plus one week, 37.5 hours per week

Closing Date: Wednesday 7th January 2026

Interviews: TBC

Abbey Hey Primary Academy is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to work within our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about supporting our youngest learners with special educational needs, helping them develop the foundations for lifelong learning.

As part of the United Learning Trust, Abbey Hey Academy is a vibrant, larger-than-average primary school in the heart of Gorton, East Manchester, with 660 fantastic children from Nursery to Year 6.

We are looking for someone who will:

• Support children with SEN in EYFS, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and ready to learn;
• Work closely with teachers and the SENCO to implement personalised learning plans and interventions;
• Adapt activities to meet individual needs and encourage independence in early learning;
• Have a nurturing, patient, and flexible approach, with resilience and a sense of humour;
• Build strong, trusting relationships with pupils, families, and staff to promote inclusion and engagement;
• Hold a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or equivalent experience in SEN/EYFS support);
• Have GCSE Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics (or equivalent);
• Be committed to continuous professional development and evidence-based approaches to SEN and early years education;
• Be proactive and creative in developing strategies that nurture confidence, communication, and social skills;
• Communicate clearly and professionally with children, parents, staff, governors, and the wider community;
• Use positive behaviour management strategies to promote a calm and inclusive learning environment;
• Be enthusiastic about making a difference and contributing to the life of the wider school community.

We can offer you:

• Opportunities for professional development within our school and Trust;
• A supportive leadership team who invest in people;
• An opportunity to work in a charitable organisation focused on improving the lives of disadvantaged children;
• Fantastic children who are enthusiastic, eager to learn, and who relish a challenge;
• A welcoming and vibrant local community;
• A friendly, hard-working and committed staff team;
• Access to the Westfield Health benefits package;
• A welcoming and attractive learning environment where everyone is valued;
• A chance to make a real difference.

United Learning is a group of schools which aims to provide excellent education to children and young people across the country. We seek to improve the life chances of all the children and young people we serve and make it our mission to bring out the best in everyone – pupils, staff, parents, and the wider community.