Teaching Assistant

East Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre (East SILC) is a large, complex 2-19 generic special school with over 470 learners on roll. Operating across multiple sites, we provide highly specialist provision for children and young people with a wide range of special educational needs and disabilities and deliver specialist services across Leeds, including the city-wide Physical Difficulties and Medical Service and the Medical Needs Teaching Service.

Exceptional Education for Exceptional Lives sits at the heart of everything we do.

Following our June 2026 Ofsted inspection, East SILC was judged to be operating at the Strong Standard in every inspection area. Inspectors recognised our ambitious curriculum, inclusive culture, strong therapeutic partnerships, high-quality staff development and unwavering commitment to preparing learners for adulthood. This is an exciting opportunity to join an organisation where collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement are central to our success.

Do you want to join a team making a difference learner’s lives?

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our expanding school community.

We have vacancies for permanent full time Level 1 teaching assistants to work at the East SILC. These roles could be based at one of our main sites; John Jamieson, Roger Cannon, Jack Clark or at one of our partnership sites; Temple Moor High School or The Bridge Community Centre. The majority of our learners have learning difficulties, and some have physical difficulties.

We require a skilled, enthusiastic person who is willing to learn, support teaching and learning and address the personal needs of our learners. You will need to be flexible and adaptable, a good communicator, cheerful, calm and be able to work as part of our team.

The permanent posts are subject to a 6 month probationary period, to start as soon as possible.

The East SILC has a progressive staffing structure in place for teaching assistants which is supported by Continual Professional Development. A thorough induction process is in place.

What we offer

East SILC offers an extensive range of opportunities and benefits. All staff benefit from a robust induction programme and a strong commitment to continuous professional development, career progression and equal opportunities.

• A strong culture of wellbeing, supported by the Schools Advisory Service, including:

• Fast‑track GP access

• Physiotherapy

• Counselling support

• A thorough induction programme

• Strong commitment to professional development and training

• Opportunities to develop specialist skills within behaviour support and SEND

In addition, staff can access a wide range of Leeds City Council benefits, including pension, salary sacrifice schemes such as cycle‑to‑work and electric vehicle leasing, and VIVUP, offering access to discounted goods and services.

The East SILC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people (learners) and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments are made subject to a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS formally CRB) and medical clearance from Leeds City Council’s Occupational Health Service.

All shortlisted candidates must complete a self-disclosure form before interview.

It is illegal to apply if you are on the children’s barred list.

The East SILC promotes diversity and wants a workforce which reflects the population of Leeds.