JOB NEWS: Gateshead Council is hiring a Specialist Sensory Teaching Assistant (Vision Impairment) in Gateshead on a Full-Time basis.
Job Overview
- Gateshead Council is recruiting a Specialist Sensory Teaching Assistant (Vision Impairment) to join its Low Incidence Needs Team (LINT).
- The role supports children and young people aged 0–25 with vision impairment across schools and educational settings throughout Gateshead.
- Successful candidates will help vision-impaired learners access education, develop independence, and fully participate in school life.
- This position involves working closely with specialist teachers, families, schools, and other professionals to deliver tailored support.
- The role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children and young people with sensory needs.
Employer
- Gateshead Council.
- Low Incidence Needs Team (LINT).
- Part of the SEN Inclusion Team.
- Supports children and young people with hearing, vision, multi-sensory, physical, and medical needs.
- Committed to helping Gateshead thrive through inclusive and high-quality services.
- Equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer.
Location
- Gateshead Civic Centre.
- Schools and educational settings across the Gateshead Borough.
Salary
- £32,061 – £34,434 per annum.
- Plus SSA allowance of £1,539.
- Salary pro rata to term-time working.
Job Type
- Permanent.
- Full-Time.
Working Hours
- 37 hours per week.
- Term-time working arrangement.
Benefits
- Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Competitive salary package.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Career progression pathways.
- Health and wellbeing support services.
- Discounted gym membership through GLL.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Electric and Hybrid Car Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
- Employee discounts through the VIVUP benefits platform.
- Salary sacrifice options for electronics and household goods.
- Flexible and supportive working environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support babies, children, and young people aged 0–25 with vision impairment.
- Remove barriers to learning and improve access to education.
- Adapt learning resources for vision-impaired learners.
- Produce tactile diagrams and specialist learning materials.
- Enlarge print and transcribe materials into Braille.
- Deliver specialist learning activities alongside Specialist Teachers for Vision Impairment.
- Support communication, social skills, mobility, touch typing, Independent Living Skills (ILS), and Braille learning.
- Provide guidance and coaching to school staff to improve inclusive practice.
- Organise and maintain specialist resources, ICT equipment, and low-vision aids.
- Build positive relationships with children, young people, families, and professionals.
- Participate in reviews, meetings, and multi-agency support work.
- Deliver awareness sessions promoting understanding of vision impairment.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation.
- Support examination access arrangements.
- Participate in out-of-school learning activities.
- Engage in ongoing professional development.
Candidate Requirements
- HLTA qualification or equivalent Level 4 qualification or above.
- Willingness to achieve the Contracted Braille Qualification (Grade 2) within required timescales.
- Knowledge of vision impairment and its impact on learning and development.
- Understanding of child development and educational frameworks.
- Experience supporting vision-impaired children and young people.
- Experience using specialist resources, assistive technology, and low-vision equipment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with families, schools, and professionals.
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Flexible and creative approach to supporting learners.
- Full driving licence and access to a vehicle, or suitable mobility support to travel across Gateshead.
About the Low Incidence Needs Team
- Provides specialist support for children and young people with sensory, physical, and medical needs.
- Works across mainstream and specialist educational settings.
- Delivers expert advice, interventions, and support services.
- Helps children and young people achieve positive educational outcomes.
- Supports families and educational professionals throughout the learner’s journey.
Safeguarding Information
- Enhanced DBS Disclosure required.
- Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.
- Successful applicants must satisfy all safeguarding requirements.
Application Information
- Vacancy ID: 298400.
- Number of Posts Available: 1.
- Advert Start Date: 19 June 2026.
- Closing Date: 28 June 2026 at 11:59pm.
- Applications should be submitted online through Gateshead Council.
- Early applications are encouraged as the vacancy may close early.
- Recruitment enquiries can be directed to recruitment@gateshead.gov.uk.
To apply, click here
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