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- Tasks: Support children with special educational needs using your sports coaching skills.
- Company: GSL Education Kent is dedicated to inclusive education and nurturing student development.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, ongoing training, and a supportive school environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in students' lives while working in a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Experience as a sports coach or similar role with children; strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Enhanced DBS check needed; flexible part-time/full-time options available.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 22000 £ per year.
Location: Ashford
Salary: £83.33 – £89 per day (depending on experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Day-to-day/Long-term, Part-time/Full-time
Are you a dynamic and energetic individual with a background in sports coaching, looking to channel your skills into a rewarding school-based role? GSL Education Kent are excited to offer a fantastic opportunity for a SEN Teaching Assistant to support children with special educational needs in a vibrant and inclusive school in Ashford.
If you’ve previously worked as a sports coach and have experience engaging children through physical activity, this SEN Teaching Assistant (TA) role could be the perfect next step in your career. You’ll join a passionate team dedicated to creating a supportive and structured learning environment where every child can thrive—both in and out of the classroom.
This school is celebrated for its inclusive ethos, strong community spirit, and commitment to nurturing each pupil’s emotional and academic development. As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you’ll receive ongoing training and work closely with teachers and therapists to support students’ individual needs.
As a SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA), your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting students with a range of complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, speech and language difficulties, and social, emotional, and mental health challenges.
- Using your sports coaching experience to encourage physical activity, teamwork, and confidence-building.
- Assisting with daily routines and providing personal care when required.
- Promoting social and emotional development through structured, positive interactions.
- Building strong, trusting relationships with pupils to help them feel safe and motivated.
- Collaborating with the class teacher and SENCO to implement tailored support strategies.
To be considered for the SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA) role, you will:
- Have previous experience as a sports coach or in a similar role involving children with additional needs.
- Be enthusiastic, patient, and passionate about supporting children with SEN.
- Possess strong communication skills and the ability to build rapport with students and staff.
- Be adaptable and eager to learn as part of a collaborative team.
- Hold an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS registered to the update service (or be willing to apply for one through GSL).
What GSL Education Offers:
- Competitive daily rates and potential for permanent contracts.
- Support from a dedicated consultant throughout your placement.
- Access to SEN-specific training and professional development.
- A welcoming school environment where your coaching background is highly valued.
Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.
As an ethical, inclusive, and independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and supporting staff in schools across the UK.
If you’re a passionate sports coach ready to make a difference as a SEN Teaching Assistant, we’d love to hear from you. Click ‘Apply Now’ to send your CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch to discuss the next steps.
Contact Detail:
GSL Education - Kent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (Sports Coach Background)
✨Tip Number 1
Highlight your sports coaching experience during any informal conversations or networking opportunities. Share specific examples of how you've engaged children through physical activity, as this will resonate with the school's focus on using sports to support SEN students.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with SEN, particularly those mentioned in the job description like ASD and ADHD. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding and readiness to support these students effectively during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former staff members at the school, if possible. They can provide insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when tailoring your approach during the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you can incorporate teamwork and confidence-building activities into your role as a SEN Teaching Assistant. Think of creative ways to use your coaching skills to foster a supportive environment for the students.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (Sports Coach Background)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your sports coaching experience and any relevant skills that align with the SEN Teaching Assistant role. Emphasise your ability to engage children through physical activity and your understanding of special educational needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for supporting children with SEN. Include specific examples of how your coaching background has prepared you for this role, and express your enthusiasm for working in an inclusive school environment.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, clearly outline any previous experience working with children, especially those with additional needs. Mention any training or qualifications related to SEN or child development that could strengthen your application.
Prepare for Safeguarding Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding and child protection during the application process. Familiarise yourself with relevant policies and be prepared to explain how you would ensure a safe environment for students.
How to prepare for a job interview at GSL Education - Kent
✨Showcase Your Coaching Experience
Make sure to highlight your background in sports coaching during the interview. Discuss specific examples of how you've engaged children through physical activity and how those skills can translate into supporting students with special educational needs.
✨Demonstrate Patience and Enthusiasm
As a SEN Teaching Assistant, patience and enthusiasm are key. Be prepared to share instances where you've shown these qualities, especially when working with children who have additional needs. This will show your potential employer that you are a good fit for their inclusive environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle various situations involving children with special educational needs. Think about how you would approach challenges such as promoting social development or managing behavioural issues, and be ready to discuss your strategies.
✨Research the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's values and commitment to inclusivity. During the interview, mention how your personal values align with theirs and express your excitement about contributing to their supportive learning environment.
