At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with Social Emotional Mental Health Needs in a primary school setting.
- Company: Engage Education, a supportive and nurturing educational environment.
- Benefits: Earn £10.00+ per hour, free Level 3 qualification, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Full-time role with mentoring and practical training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience and qualifications.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 20800 - 27120 £ per year.
Apprentice SEND / SEMH Teaching Assistant – Primary School
Location: Barking and Dagenham
Pay: £10.00 - £13.00 per hour (above apprenticeship rate)
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Full-Time
Earn while you learn as a SEND Teaching Assistant.
Are you looking for a SEND Teaching Assistant role with training, pay from day one, and real long-term career progression in education? We’re recruiting a Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant to join a supportive Primary School in Barking and Dagenham, working with students across EYFS, KS1 and KS2 with Social Emotional Mental Health Needs while completing a fully funded Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship.
Why this role stands out:
- £10.00+ per hour (above standard apprenticeship wage)
- FREE Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (CACHE)
- Clear progression to Level 4 HLTA and specialist SEND roles
- Full mentoring and structured support from Engage Education
- Practical, school-based training with a strong SEND and SEMH focus
Key responsibilities:
- Support students 1:1 and in small groups
Apprentice TA employer: Engage Education
Join a vibrant and inclusive Primary School in Barking and Dagenham, where you will not only earn a competitive wage but also receive a fully funded Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification. Our supportive work culture prioritises your professional growth with clear pathways to advanced roles, alongside dedicated mentoring and practical training focused on Social Emotional Mental Health needs, making it an ideal environment for aspiring educators.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice TA
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Teaching Assistants and ask about their experiences. They might have insider tips on landing the role or even know of openings that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions. Think about how you can showcase your passion for supporting students with SEND and SEMH needs. We want to see your personality shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight any relevant experience, even if it’s informal. Volunteering, babysitting, or working with children in any capacity can show your commitment and skills. We love seeing that dedication!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in education, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice TA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education:Let us see your enthusiasm for working in education, especially with SEND and SEMH students. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you to support these learners.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to know why you're a great fit for our supportive Primary School!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so avoid fluff and get straight to the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Engage Education
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Social Emotional Mental Health (SEMH) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with common challenges students face and think about how you can support them. This will show your passion for the role and your commitment to helping students thrive.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, be ready to share examples of how you've shown empathy or supported someone in need. Whether it's a personal experience or a previous role, demonstrating your ability to connect with students on an emotional level is key for this position.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask your interviewers about their approach to SEND and SEMH. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours. Think about asking about their training programmes or how they support their teaching assistants.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way in interviews. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. The school is looking for someone who fits into their culture, so being genuine will help them see how you would contribute to their team.
