Job title: PMLD Teaching Assistant
Job type: Contract
Emp type: Full-time
Industry: SEND
Functional Expertise: SEND Teaching and Support
Pay interval: Hourly
Pay rate: Negotiable
Location: London, UK
Job published: 16-01-2026
Job ID: 114621

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.