Job Description

Graduate SEN Classroom Assistant

Are you a recent graduate ready to make a difference? Whether your background is in Psychology, Speech & Language Therapy, Social Work, Education, or the Creative Arts, this is a powerful first step into the world of SEND. A specialist school in Leeds is seeking compassionate and proactive individuals to support pupils aged 4-16 with autism, ADHD, speech and language challenges, and learning difficulties. Full-time and part-time opportunities are available, with a September start.

The Role

As a Graduate SEN Classroom Assistant, you'll become a key part of a pupil's journey. Working closely with class teachers and therapists, you'll support individuals and small groups to access learning, develop communication skills, and build confidence.

Your day might involve:

Helping children with autism, ADHD and other needs engage with lessons and activities Using creative approaches like music, movement, or visual aids to make learning accessible Supporting emotional regulation and encouraging positive behaviours Using tools like visual schedules, Makaton and PECS (training provided) Collaborating with staff and families to create consistent, nurturing support

Who You'll Be

This role is ideal for graduates who want meaningful, hands-on experience in a classroom setting. You may be:

A Psychology or Counselling graduate with an interest in mental health or child development Training in Speech & Language Therapy and keen to apply your knowledge From a Social Work, Health or Care background and passionate about inclusive education A creative individual with skills in art, drama or play looking to support children in a therapeutic way Exploring a career in education, youth work or therapy and looking to gain valuable experience
You do need to be:

Patient, calm and reliable A strong communicator who listens and adapts Curious about how children learn and develop Ready to learn new skills and take on challenges with care and confidence

The School

This Leeds-based specialist school offers a structured, supportive environment for children with additional needs. With small class sizes, sensory and therapy spaces, and a truly nurturing ethos, the staff team works collaboratively to ensure every pupil is seen, supported and celebrated.

Hours and Start Date

Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 3.30pm Term-time only - no evenings or weekends Full-time or part-time hours available Start date: September 2025

Why Apply?

Competitive pay Comprehensive training provided Valuable experience for future careers in education, psychology or therapy Long-term role with the opportunity to become permanent

Be part of something meaningful this September. Apply now to build a career that starts with care.

Safeguarding children is an integral part of what we do and we have a stringent safer recruitment process. We undertake checks on all the candidates we work with. As such we require a current Enhanced DBS Disclosure for everyone working in Schools. If you do not have a subscription to the DBS Update Service, you may be required to complete a new DBS application as part of the registration process. If you take a temporary role with Sense Education you will be paid on a weekly basis. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position but long term. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Temp to perm

Pay: 90.00-105.00 per day

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Schedule:

Monday to Friday No weekends
Work Location: In person