SEND Teaching assistant

Position: Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching AssistantLocation: London / South EastEmployment Type: Full-time / Part-timeSalary: £90 - £115 per dayStart Date: ASAP

We are a specialist day and residential school for children and young people aged 8-19 with moderate to severe learning difficulties, autism, and additional needs, such as ADHD, Down's syndrome, and language challenges. Every student in our care has an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), with placements made through local authorities across London and the South East.

Our school is located on an expansive site that includes seventy-eight acres of green and woodland spaces. Facilities include a Forest School, purpose-built playgrounds, and dedicated sports areas, all of which play a role in our holistic approach to education. In addition to academics, we emphasize music, performing arts, and social responsibility, including a steel band and a Makaton Choir.

Our Values—honesty, openness, social responsibility, and caring for others—guide all aspects of school life and underscore our commitment to preparing students for independent adult lives. We offer a highly engaging curriculum tailored to each student’s needs, fostering both academic and life skills.

Key Responsibilities

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will:

• Support students in the classroom by adapting lesson materials and providing individualised support for a range of learning needs.
• Work closely with teachers and other professionals to help create an inclusive and engaging learning environment.
• Assist with the development of communication and social skills, using methods such as Makaton and PECS as appropriate.
• Help students build life and independence skills, especially for post-16 students who are preparing for adulthood.
• Implement behavior management strategies to support students with various social and emotional needs.
• Engage students in outdoor and arts-based activities, including Forest School sessions, sports, music, and performing arts.

Qualifications and Skills

• Required: Experience working with children or young people with special educational needs (SEN), preferably in a school setting.
• Skills:
• Empathy, patience, and adaptability to support students’ diverse needs.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
• Knowledge of SEND-specific strategies, such as Makaton or PECS, is an advantage.
• Commitment to creating a positive, inclusive classroom atmosphere that aligns with our Values.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with opportunities for professional development in SEND.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment, focused on staff well-being and growth.
• The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, helping them reach their fullest potential.