Job Description

PMLD Teaching Assistant – Hackney, East London – Immediate Start

A Special School in Hackney is seeking a PMLD Teaching Assistant to support pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) and complex additional needs. This is a full-time, long-term role for pupils who require a structured, nurturing, and specialist approach to learning and care.

You will work alongside SEN teachers, therapists, and support staff to provide pupil-centred support that prioritises communication, sensory engagement, wellbeing, and independence throughout the school day.

PMLD Teaching Assistant – What the Role Offers:

• £444–£513 per week (PAYE, holiday pay included)

• Full-time, term time only (Monday to Friday, 8:00am–3:30pm)

• Immediate start until July 2026

• Long-term opportunity within a specialist SEN setting

• Experience working within a multidisciplinary team

PMLD Teaching Assistant – Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with PMLD, following EHCPs and personalised learning programmes

• Support pupils with complex physical needs, including mobility, feeding, and personal care, safely and respectfully

• Assist with sensory-based learning activities, including sensory rooms and specialist equipment

• Support communication using AAC strategies, including Makaton, PECS, and communication aids

• Work collaboratively with teachers, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, and support staff

• Observe, record, and report pupil engagement and progress

• Maintain a calm, structured environment supporting emotional regulation and wellbeing

• Follow all safeguarding, health and safety, and moving and handling procedures

PMLD Teaching Assistant – Ideal Candidate:

• Experience supporting pupils with PMLD, SLD, or complex SEND in a special school

• Understanding of person-centred, holistic SEN practice

• Patient, resilient, and able to respond sensitively to physical and emotional needs

• Confident working within a multidisciplinary environment

• Level 3 qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Health & Social Care, or similar (desirable)

• Enhanced DBS, or willingness to obtain one

Ribbons & Reeves are London’s leading education recruiters, specialising in long-term and permanent placements across mainstream and specialist SEN schools. We are proud to support professionals who are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of pupils with severe learning difficulties.