At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with SEND while gaining hands-on experience and a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification.
- Company: Join a supportive SEND school in Boston Spa, Leeds.
- Benefits: Earn £10.00 – £13.00 per hour and receive full training and mentoring.
- Other info: No previous school experience required; just bring your enthusiasm and commitment to learn.
- Why this job: Launch your career in education while making a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Psychology graduates or those passionate about supporting young people with additional needs.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 27000 £ per year.
Location: Leeds LS23
Pay: £10.00 – £13.00 per hour (above apprenticeship rate)
Start Date: September 2026
Contract: Full-Time | Long-Term Opportunity
Earn While You Learn in SEND Education
Are you a Psychology graduate looking to gain hands‑on experience in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) education while earning a recognised qualification? Whether you’re aspiring to become an Educational Psychologist, Therapist, Counsellor, Teacher, or SEND Specialist, this Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant opportunity offers the perfect foundation to launch your career.
We are recruiting for a passionate and proactive Psychology Graduate to join a supportive SEND School in Boston Spa, working with students across a range of additional needs while completing a fully funded Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship. This role combines practical school-based experience with structured training, mentoring, and clear long‑term career progression within SEND education.
Why This Role Stands Out
- £10.00 – £13.00 per hour (above standard apprenticeship wage)
- Fully funded Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship (CACHE)
- Valuable experience for aspiring Educational Psychologists, Therapists, and Teachers
- Clear progression opportunities into HLTA and specialist SEND roles
- Full mentoring and structured support from Engage Education
- Hands‑on experience within a specialist SEND and SEMH environment
- No previous school experience required
- Gain experience supporting pupils with Autism, ADHD, SEMH, and complex learning needs
Your Role as a Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant
As a SEND Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teaching staff to support students academically, socially, and emotionally. Your responsibilities will include:
- Supporting students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Assisting pupils with SEND, SEMH, ASD, ADHD, and learning difficulties
- Supporting emotional regulation, behaviour, and classroom engagement
- Delivering literacy, numeracy, and subject‑based interventions
- Assisting with sensory and personalised learning activities
- Implementing strategies from EHCPs and behaviour support plans
- Helping prepare classroom resources and learning materials
- Providing feedback to teachers on student progress and engagement
- Promoting inclusion within mainstream and specialist classroom settings
- Supporting targeted interventions and revision sessions
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Psychology graduates
- Aspiring Educational Psychologists or Therapists
- Graduates considering a career in teaching or SEND education
- Youth workers, mentors, or care/support workers
- Teaching Assistants looking to gain formal qualifications
- Career changers passionate about supporting young people with additional needs
Successful applicants will demonstrate:
- Empathy, patience, and resilience
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A flexible and proactive attitude
- A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with SEND
- Commitment to professional development and learning
No school experience is required — just the right attitude and willingness to learn.
Requirements
Commitment to completing an 11‑month apprenticeship programme
GCSE Maths
Psychology Graduate- September Start employer: Engage Partners Limited
Join a dynamic and supportive SEND school in Boston Spa, where you can kickstart your career as a Psychology Graduate while earning a competitive wage and gaining invaluable hands-on experience. With a fully funded Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship, clear pathways for progression, and a nurturing work culture that prioritises professional development, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students with additional needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology Graduate- September Start
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to SEND education. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence and get feedback on your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at a job fair or an informal chat, share your enthusiasm for working with children with additional needs. Your genuine interest can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals like you to join our team in SEND education.
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology Graduate- September Start
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your passion for psychology and working with SEND. Highlight any relevant experience, even if it’s not in a school setting, and don’t forget to mention your skills that align with the role!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your motivation for applying and how your background in psychology makes you a great fit for this role. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, emphasise your empathy, patience, and communication skills. These are key traits we’re looking for in a Trainee SEND Teaching Assistant, so make sure they stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll be one step closer to starting your rewarding journey in SEND education!
How to prepare for a job interview at Engage Partners Limited
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Familiarise yourself with common conditions like Autism, ADHD, and SEMH. This will show your passion for the role and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy and patience in past experiences. Whether it's through volunteering, mentoring, or even personal experiences, showing that you understand the challenges faced by students with additional needs is key.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the school's approach to supporting students or how they implement strategies from EHCPs. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and eager to learn more.
✨Be Yourself
Don’t forget to let your personality shine through! The school is looking for someone who is not only qualified but also a good fit for their team. Be honest about your motivations and what drives you to work in SEND education.
