Job Description

SEN Teaching Assistant

Summary

Are you calm under pressure, kind at heart, and motivated by the chance to make a real difference? A welcoming specialist school is looking for an SEN Teaching Assistant to join its experienced and nurturing team. This is a long-term role supporting pupils with autism, communication needs and complex learning differences in a calm, structured environment where every child is valued.

About the Role

This is a hands-on, classroom-based role where you'll provide essential support to pupils aged 4-19 who experience the world differently. Working closely with teachers and therapists, you'll help pupils access learning, develop confidence and communication, and build the skills they need to succeed -- both in and beyond the classroom.

You'll:

Provide 1:1 and small group support across a range of needs Use sensory tools, visual aids and alternative communication strategies Adapt learning tasks to suit individual EHCPs and preferred learning styles Support emotional regulation using consistent, positive behaviour strategies Help with personal care if required (training will be given) Play an active role in a caring, collaborative school community
No two days are the same -- but each brings opportunities to connect, support and celebrate student progress.

What We're Looking For

You'll be someone who brings patience, empathy and a team-focused mindset. Resilience and a calm approach in challenging situations are essential.

This role suits individuals who:

Are adaptable to different needs, behaviours and communication styles Enjoy working as part of a close-knit, multidisciplinary team Are motivated by seeing the impact of their support, day by day Are open to learning new approaches and strategies
We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including:

Care, health or youth work Previous SEN or Teaching Assistant roles Psychology, education or social care graduates Those with lived or voluntary experience supporting children or young people with SEND
Experience with PECS, Makaton, autism or sensory processing needs is helpful but not essential.

The School

This specialist setting provides tailored support for pupils aged 4-19 with autism and associated needs. With small class groups, a therapeutic approach and a focus on wellbeing and steady progress, the school offers a supportive space for pupils to flourish and staff to thrive.

Working Hours

Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 3.30pm (term time only)
Full-time and part-time options available

What We Offer

A consistent, term-time role with school-day hours Competitive pay Ongoing training in key SEND strategies and communication approaches A long-term position with the possibility of becoming permanent
If you're ready to bring compassion, structure and support to pupils who learn differently -- this could be the meaningful role you've been looking for.

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: 14.00-16.00 per hour

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking Referral programme
Work Location: In person