At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special needs and assist in their learning journey.
- Company: Join a supportive secondary school in Croydon.
- Benefits: Earn £10.00+ per hour, gain a free Level 3 qualification, and enjoy flexible training.
- Other info: Clear progression opportunities in SEND and education await you!
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while kickstarting your career in education.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a passion for helping young people.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 26000 € per year.
Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant – Secondary School
Location: Croydon
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 Secondary School in Croydon, working with students across KS3 and KS4 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) 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
- Work with pupils with SEND, SEMH, ASD, ADHD, and learning difficulties
- Support emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement
- Assist with literacy, numeracy, and subject-based interventions
- Implement support strategies from EHCPs and behaviour plans
- Support inclusion within the classroom and specialist provisions
- Assist teachers with lesson preparation and learning resources
- Support targeted interventions and revision sessions
Who should apply:
- Aspiring teachers or SEND specialists
- Psychology, education, or youth work graduates
- Teaching Assistants or support staff looking to gain qualifications
- Youth workers, care workers, or mentors
- Career changers passionate about supporting young people with additional needs
No school experience required — just the right attitude.
Requirements:
- Commitment to an 11-month apprenticeship
- GCSE Maths & English Grade C/4+ preferred
- Not currently enrolled on another government-funded course
Training & benefits:
- Study completed flexibly during school holidays
- £50 Amazon referral voucher
- Full DBS application support
- Clear long-term career progression in SEND and Secondary education
Apply now to start your career as a SEND Teaching Assistant and gain a recognised qualification while you earn. All applicants must hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check – full support provided.
Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant, Croydon employer: Engage Partners Limited
Join a dynamic and supportive Secondary School in Croydon as a Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant, where you will earn while you learn with a competitive pay rate and a fully funded Level 3 qualification. Our inclusive work culture prioritises employee growth, offering clear pathways to advanced roles in education, alongside comprehensive mentoring and practical training focused on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people, with the added benefit of flexible study during school holidays and full DBS support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant, Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former SEND Teaching Assistants and ask them about their experiences. They might have insider tips or even know of job openings that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the school and its approach to SEND. We want you to show genuine interest and understanding of the role, so think about how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your passion for supporting students with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed, and we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant role.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant, Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant. We want to see your passion for supporting students with SEND, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Relevant Experience:Even if you don’t have direct school experience, think about any relevant roles or activities you've done that demonstrate your commitment to helping young people. We love seeing enthusiasm and transferable skills!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the team.
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 get the ball rolling on your journey to becoming a Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant.
How to prepare for a job interview at Engage Partners Limited
✨Know Your SEND Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Understand the different types of needs, like ASD and ADHD, and be ready to discuss how you can support students with these challenges.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
Let your enthusiasm for working with young people shine through. Share any relevant experiences, even if they’re not in a school setting, that demonstrate your commitment to supporting students with additional needs.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to SEND, the support you'll receive during your apprenticeship, and opportunities for progression. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Practice Scenario Responses
Think about potential scenarios you might face as a SEND Teaching Assistant, such as managing behaviour or supporting emotional regulation. Practise how you would respond to these situations, as this will help you feel more confident during the interview.
