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- Tasks: Support children with additional needs, helping them learn and grow in a nurturing environment.
- Company: GSL Education Kent is an ethical recruitment agency dedicated to supporting schools across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, tailored training, and ongoing support from a dedicated consultant.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while transitioning your healthcare skills into education.
- Qualifications: Healthcare background, confidence with children, and a willingness to learn are essential.
- Other info: Enhanced DBS check required; this role is about shaping futures and fostering growth.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 22000 £ per year.
Step Into the Classroom and Make a Lasting Impact
Position: SEN Teaching Assistant (Healthcare Assistant Background)
Location: Tonbridge
Salary: GBP83.33 GBP89 per day (depending on experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract: Day-to-day/Long-term, Part-time/Full-time
Are you a Healthcare Assistant ready for a new chapter one where your compassion, calm presence, and care skills can shape young lives beyond the clinical setting?
At GSL Education Kent, we re offering a unique opportunity in Tonbridge for individuals with a healthcare background to transition into education as a SEN Teaching Assistant (TA). This role is perfect for those who thrive on connection, patience, and purpose.
In this role, you won t just support learning you ll be a steady hand and a trusted presence for children navigating the challenges of autism, SEMH, medical needs, and more. Your experience in care will be your greatest asset as you help create a safe, structured, and nurturing environment where every child can grow.
What You ll Be Doing as SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA):
- Supporting children 1:1 or in small groups, helping them access learning and build confidence.
- Assisting students with physical or medical needs, including personal care when required.
- Implementing tailored learning plans and behaviour strategies alongside teachers and therapists.
- Using your healthcare experience to foster emotional regulation and a sense of calm in the classroom.
- Collaborating with a dedicated team to deliver holistic, child-centred support.
What We re Looking in SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA):
- A background in healthcare or a similar care-based role.
- Confidence in working with children with additional and complex needs.
- A calm, resilient, and empathetic approach to daily challenges.
- Flexibility, initiative, and a willingness to learn.
- An Enhanced Child Workforce DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one).
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive daily rates and access to long-term placements.
- Tailored training to help you transition from healthcare to education.
- Ongoing support from a dedicated consultant who understands your journey.
- A chance to make a real difference every single day.
This is more than a job it s a chance to be part of a child s story, to help them feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving more than they imagined.
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 ready to bring your care experience into the classroom and start a new, rewarding path, click Apply Now and send us your CV. One of our consultants will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.
For more information about this role or other opportunities, contact Kate at the GSL Education Kent office.
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SEN Teaching Assistant (Healthcare Assistant Background) employer: GSL Education - Kent
Contact Detail:
GSL Education - Kent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (Healthcare Assistant Background)
✨Tip Number 1
Leverage your healthcare experience by highlighting specific instances where you've supported individuals with additional needs. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with children facing similar challenges.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN students. Attend local workshops or seminars to meet educators and learn more about the role, which can help you stand out during the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with autism and SEMH. Understanding these conditions will not only prepare you for the role but also show your commitment to making a positive impact in their lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to creating a calm and supportive environment in the classroom. Think of examples from your healthcare background where you successfully managed challenging situations, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (Healthcare Assistant Background)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your healthcare experience and how it relates to working with children. Emphasise skills like empathy, patience, and any relevant training that showcases your ability to support children with additional needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that explains why you want to transition from healthcare to education. Share specific examples of how your background has prepared you for the role of a SEN Teaching Assistant and your passion for making a difference in children's lives.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on any experience you have working with children or in educational settings, even if it's informal. Mention any strategies you've used to support emotional regulation or personal care, as these are crucial for the role.
Prepare for Safeguarding Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding and child protection during the application process. Familiarise yourself with key principles and be prepared to explain how you would ensure a safe environment for children.
How to prepare for a job interview at GSL Education - Kent
✨Showcase Your Compassion
As a SEN Teaching Assistant, your ability to connect with children is crucial. Be prepared to share specific examples from your healthcare background where you demonstrated compassion and patience, especially in challenging situations.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss how your previous roles as a Healthcare Assistant have equipped you with skills that are transferable to the classroom. Focus on your experience with personal care, emotional support, and working with individuals who have complex needs.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Initiative
The role requires adaptability and a proactive approach. Be ready to discuss instances where you had to think on your feet or adapt your methods to meet the needs of those you were supporting.
✨Understand Safeguarding Principles
Familiarise yourself with safeguarding and child protection policies. During the interview, express your understanding of these principles and why they are vital in an educational setting, showing that you prioritise the safety and well-being of children.
