Reception/year 1 Teaching assistant (SEND)

About the role

A warm and nurturing primary school in Rugby is looking for a dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to support pupils across Reception and Year 1. This part‑time role is ideal for someone who is patient, caring and confident working with young children who require additional support. You’ll be helping pupils access learning, develop early communication skills and feel fully included in the classroom.

Requirements

• SEND experience is essential
• Experience working in EYFS or KS1 is highly desirable
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A calm, patient and adaptable approach
• Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with young children
• Understanding of early learning, emotional regulation and behaviour support
• Commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing

Day‑to‑day duties

• Providing 1:1 or small‑group support for pupils with SEND in Reception and Year 1
• Assisting with early phonics, communication, play‑based learning and classroom routines
• Helping pupils stay engaged, confident and emotionally regulated
• Supporting behaviour using agreed strategies
• Working closely with the class teacher and SENCO to follow support plans
• Encouraging independence, social interaction and positive learning habits
• Contributing to a safe, inclusive and nurturing early years environment

Why choose Zest

Zest Education is known for its friendly, honest and supportive approach. You’ll work with a consultant who understands the Rugby area and is committed to finding the right school fit for you. We focus on clear communication, competitive pay and a genuinely personal service so you always feel valued throughout your placement.

If you are interested in this position or want to find out more, email Harleigh at Harleigh@Zesteducation.co.uk or ‘apply for job’ at the top of the page to submit your details.

Zest Education are an APSCo audited agency and are dedicated to safeguarding children. All candidates must hold an enhanced DBS (or allow us to process one for you) and be registered to the DBS Update Service, be able to provide references to cover the last two years and successfully pass all other necessary safeguarding checks prior to clearance for work.

Salary is dependent on experience, training, or qualifications. The minimum experience, training, or qualifications required for this position are recent school-based experience (within the last 5 years within a school that teaches the British Curriculum) and/or care-based experience within the last 5 years.

The role advertised is for temporary supply work.

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