PMLD Teaching Assistant

PMLD Teaching Assistant – Full Time Location: South Birmingham Pay: £90 – £110 Per Day (Based on experience) Contract – Full-time opportunity Monday – Friday Start Date: September 2026 Smile Education is proud to be supporting a specialist further education setting that is seeking a compassionate and dedicated PMLD Teaching Assistant to join their experienced team. This is a rewarding opportunity for an individual who is passionate about supporting young adults aged 16–25 with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), severe physical disabilities, complex learning needs, and associated communication difficulties. The successful candidate will work closely with teaching staff and multidisciplinary professionals to help learners access a personalised curriculum that promotes independence, communication, wellbeing, and preparation for adulthood. The Role

• Support young adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities within classroom-based and practical learning environments.
• Assist learners with personal care, mobility, feeding, and medical needs where required.
• Support the delivery of personalised learning programmes in line with EHCP outcomes.
• Encourage learner engagement through sensory activities, communication-focused sessions, life skills, and independence programmes.
• Use a range of communication methods including Makaton, PECS, communication aids, and sensory-based approaches.
• Promote learner independence, confidence, and social development.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, healthcare professionals, and support staff.
• Support positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing through a person-centred approach.
• Assist with moving and handling procedures following appropriate training and guidance.
• Contribute to learner reviews, progress monitoring, and target setting.
• Promote safeguarding, dignity, inclusion, and wellbeing at all times.

About the Setting

• Specialist further education provision for young adults aged 16–25 with complex learning difficulties and disabilities.
• Modern and well-resourced facilities designed to support learners with severe physical disabilities and complex needs.
• Dedicated therapy and healthcare support teams working alongside education staff.
• Strong focus on preparation for adulthood, independence, communication, and community participation.
• Supportive leadership team and experienced specialist staff.
• Excellent transport links and accessible facilities.
• Positive learning environment where learners are encouraged to achieve their individual goals and aspirations.
• Ongoing staff development and training opportunities.

Requirements

• Experience supporting individuals with PMLD, complex needs, severe learning difficulties, or physical disabilities (minimum 6 months preferred).
• Previous experience within education, care, healthcare, or specialist support settings.
• Comfortable supporting personal care and mobility needs.
• Understanding of sensory learning approaches and alternative communication methods is desirable.
• Professional and caring nature with the ability to build positive relationships with learners and colleagues.
• Committed to full-time work and providing consistent support for learners.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organisational skills.
• Able to provide a minimum of 2 references covering the past two years.
• Hold an enhanced DBS or be willing to apply for a new one through Smile Education.
• Moving and Handling training is desirable but not essential.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of young adults with complex needs, supporting them to develop independence, confidence, communication skills, and achieve positive outcomes for adulthood. Apply now to be considered for this rewarding full-time PMLD Teaching Assistant role starting in September. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Enhanced DBS, Barred List, Right to Work, and qualification verification checks. We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications