SEN Teaching Assistant
Job Summary
- Providing individual and small group support to students in primary secondary or college environments.
- Assisting students with ASD ADHD SEMH and other learning challenges by delivering personalized assistance.
- Collaborating with educators to modify lessons to meet specific requirements utilizing PECS Makaton and sensory-based learning.
- Guiding students in building confidence independence and social skills through structured interventions.
- Implementing behavior management techniques and offering emotional support as necessary.
- Working in conjunction with teachers SENCOs and therapists to establish a nurturing educational atmosphere.
- Promoting inclusivity and engagement ensuring equal access to learning opportunities for all students.
- Graduates in Psychology Education SEN Social Work or related disciplines seeking practical involvement.
- Experienced Teaching Assistants Youth Workers or Support Workers with a strong interest in SEN.
- Possessing a patient empathetic and proactive approach to working with children and young individuals.
- Familiarity or experience with SEN strategies like PECS Makaton Team Teach or de-escalation techniques (preferred but not mandatory).
- Willingness to engage in continuous professional development (CPD) and training initiatives.
- Relevant qualifications or experience in education psychology or related fields.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Patience empathy and a proactive attitude towards supporting individuals with SEN.
Supportive and inclusive school environment working alongside experienced SEN professionals.
Ongoing training and development opportunities including specialist SEN training.
Opportunities for career progression into higher-level TA roles or teaching pathways.
Required Skills:
Empathy and understandingDifferentiated lesson planning & deliveryAssessment for learningPositive behaviour supportIndividualised curriculum adaptationMulti-agency collaborationCommunication expertise Safeguarding & pastoral careData & record keepingAssistive technology proficiency Teamwork & coachingReflective practice & CPD
Required Education:
Postgraduate qualification or accredited training in SEND (e.g. National Award for SEN Coordination Autism Education Trust dyslexia/SpLD or SEMH)Proficiency in alternative/augmentative communication methodsMakaton PECS AAC using evidence-based interventions such as TEACCH SCERTS or Positive Behaviour in Team-Teach MAPA or similar de-escalation and safe-handling with assistive ed-tech tools and adaptive software