At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with special educational needs in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: GSL Education Kent is an ethical recruitment agency focused on quality teaching and support.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible placements, and dedicated consultant support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young learners' lives while growing professionally in a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Experience as an Early Years Support Worker; patience and adaptability are key.
- Other info: Enhanced DBS check required; immediate start available.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 22000 £ per year.
Location: Tonbridge
Salary: £83.33 - £89 per day (depending on experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract: Day-to-day/Long-term, Part-time/Full-time
Are you an experienced Early Years Support Worker ready to explore a new path in education? GSL Education Kent are currently seeking a dedicated and nurturing SEN Teaching Assistant to join a supportive school community in Tonbridge. This role is particularly well-suited to individuals with a background in early years who are passionate about helping children with special educational needs thrive.
This is a fantastic opportunity to apply your early childhood expertise in a school setting, where your understanding of developmental milestones, emotional regulation, and child-centred care will be highly valued. You’ll be working with pupils who may have autism, speech and language difficulties, SEMH needs, or other learning challenges. The school is known for its inclusive ethos and commitment to student well-being. Staff are encouraged to collaborate, share ideas, and grow professionally in a positive and structured environment.
Key Responsibilities of SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA):- Provide tailored support to pupils with SEN, either one-to-one or in small groups.
- Assist children with early developmental needs, including communication and sensory processing.
- Help implement individual learning plans and behaviour strategies.
- Create a calm, engaging, and supportive learning space.
- Work closely with teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals to ensure consistent support.
- Previous experience as an Early Years Support Worker or in a similar childcare role.
- Confident in supporting children with additional and complex needs.
- Patient, empathetic, and adaptable in your approach.
- Able to follow guidance while using your initiative.
- Willing to obtain (or already hold) an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service.
- Competitive daily pay and access to long-term placements.
- Supportive onboarding and training to help you transition into the education sector.
- A dedicated consultant to assist you throughout your placement.
- The chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young learners.
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.
If you’re ready to bring your early years experience into a school setting and support children with additional needs, we’d love to hear from you. Click Apply Now to submit your CV for SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA), and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss the next steps.
For further details about this role or other opportunities, please contact Kate at the GSL Education Kent office.
SEN Teaching Assistant - Early Years Support Workers 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 - Early Years Support Workers
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with SEN, particularly those related to autism and speech difficulties. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding during any informal discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who work with early years and SEN. Attend local workshops or seminars to connect with others and gain insights that could be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in detail, focusing on how you've supported children with additional needs. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your patience, empathy, and adaptability.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the school’s ethos and values, particularly their approach to inclusivity and student well-being. Tailoring your conversation to align with their mission can make a strong impression during your interactions.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant - Early Years Support Workers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as an Early Years Support Worker. Emphasise any specific skills or training related to supporting children with special educational needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with children with SEN. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to create a supportive learning environment.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any qualifications related to child development, special education, or safeguarding, be sure to mention them in your application. This will show your commitment to the role.
Prepare for Interview Questions: Think about potential interview questions related to your experience with SEN and early years education. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios involving children with additional needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at GSL Education - Kent
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with young children, especially those with special educational needs. Share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your dedication and the positive impact you've made.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of SEN
Be prepared to discuss various special educational needs and how you would support children facing these challenges. Familiarise yourself with strategies for communication, emotional regulation, and sensory processing to showcase your knowledge.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since collaboration is key in this role, emphasise your ability to work effectively with teachers, SENCOs, and other professionals. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles to create a supportive learning environment.
✨Prepare Questions About the School's Ethos
Research the school's inclusive ethos and be ready to ask insightful questions about their approach to supporting students with SEN. This shows your genuine interest in their community and your commitment to contributing positively.