SEND Teaching Assistant

1:1 TEACHING ASSISTANT (Supporting a Child with Down’s Syndrome) The Rosary Catholic Primary School, Stroud Hours: 17.5hrs per week (term time only), either 8.40am until 12.10pm, or 12pm until 3.30pm Start date: 1st September 2026 Contract: Fixed term (named pupil) Salary: Dependant on experience and qualifications Location: The Rosary Catholic Primary School, Stroud Are you compassionate, committed and ready to make a life‑changing difference? The Rosary Catholic Primary School is seeking two dedicated, skilled and nurturing 1:1 Teaching Assistants to provide high‑quality support for a child with Down’s Syndrome. This is a unique and rewarding role, ideal for someone who is passionate about inclusive education and committed to helping every child thrive. You will work closely with the class teacher, SEN Lead and a team of specialist therapists to ensure the pupil can access the curriculum, communicate effectively, develop independence and flourish socially and emotionally. About the Role As our 1:1 Teaching Assistant, you will: Provide consistent 1:1 support throughout the school day. Use a total communication approach , including Makaton, visuals, objects of reference and clear modelling of language. Support daily Speech & Language Therapy practice sessions and implement therapy strategies throughout all learning. Support the pupil’s social interaction, turn‑taking, emotional regulation and play skills using personalised strategies. Support the delivery of Occupational Therapy and sensory regulation activities under professional guidance. Use adapted teaching resources, pre‑teach vocabulary, and break activities into small, achievable steps. Work with physiotherapists to support physical development, strength, balance and safe movement. Support the pupil with self‑care routines, emotional wellbeing and independence skills. Collaborate with families and maintain consistent communication. This is a highly specialised role where relationship‑building, patience and consistency are key. Training and Support Provided All required training will be funded and includes: Positive About Down Syndrome (PADS) or Ups & Downs Southwest Down’s Syndrome training. Makaton Levels 1-3 . Training from SaLT, OT and Physiotherapy specialists. PECS/TOBI/AAC communication training. Vision impairment adaptation strategies. Paediatric First Aid and Intimate Care training. You will be fully supported by the SENDCo, SEN Lead and Inclusion team. About You We are looking for someone who is: Warm, patient and committed to inclusion Able to build a trusting, secure relationship with a young child A clear communicator and a reflective practitioner Calm, reliable and able to follow specialist programmes Willing to undertake required training (Makaton, PADS, therapy‑led training) Positive, creative and enthusiastic about helping a child succeed Experience supporting