At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with Autism and emotional needs in a nurturing learning environment.
- Company: Values-led specialist education provider with a strong reputation for staff support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, health cash plan, and 24/7 GP access.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in education.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above; experience with challenging behaviour.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Surrey
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 40 hours per week, Term Time Only
Working Pattern:
- 08:15 start daily
- Finish times: Mon–Wed 16:45 | Thu 17:00 | Fri 16:00
Salary: £23,000 – £25,000 per annum (depending on qualifications and experience)
About the Role
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established, values-led specialist education provider with an excellent reputation for staff support, development and wellbeing. As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting pupils aged 11–16 with Autism and associated social, emotional and sensory needs to thrive within a nurturing, structured learning environment.
You will work closely with teachers and the wider pastoral team to support learning, behaviour, independence and emotional wellbeing, helping every pupil achieve their full potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Safeguard and promote the welfare and wellbeing of all pupils in line with school policies
- Support pupils with learning, behaviour and emotional regulation
- Build strong, positive relationships that help pupils feel safe and confident
- Encourage independence, personal development and positive behaviour
- Reinforce learning concepts delivered by the teacher
- Prepare resources and support the delivery of lessons and activities
- Adapt support strategies in response to changing behaviour or needs
- Provide meaningful feedback on pupil progress, behaviour and engagement
- Support the delivery of a broad, balanced curriculum
- Assist with care needs where required
(Duties may vary, and flexibility is essential.)
Successful Candidate Qualities (Essential & Desirable)
Essential:
- GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above
- Understanding of safeguarding principles and child protection procedures
- Experience managing a range of behaviour, including behaviours that challenge
- Patient, resilient and nurturing approach
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
Desirable:
- Level 2 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (or willingness to work towards)
- Previous experience within a SEND provision
- Experience working within education
- Experience within a multicultural, inclusive setting
- Experience supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD, SLD or PMLD
- Behaviour support training (Team Teach or similar)
What’s on Offer
- Pension and life assurance
- 24/7 GP access for you and your household
- Health cash plan (dental, optical, etc.)
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work and Car Scheme
Teaching Assistant SEN employer: Key Health
Contact Detail:
Key Health Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant SEN
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the school you're eyeing. A friendly chat can give us insider info on what they value in a Teaching Assistant and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions. Think about how your experiences align with supporting pupils with Autism and emotional needs. We want to show them you’re not just qualified, but passionate about making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In the role of a SEN Teaching Assistant, flexibility is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully adjusted your approach to meet diverse learning needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant SEN
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 SEN Teaching Assistant. We want to see how you can support pupils with Autism and other needs, so don’t hold back on sharing relevant examples!
Showcase Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through in your written application. We’re looking for someone who is patient, nurturing, and genuinely cares about making a difference in pupils' lives, so share why this role excites you!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Key Health
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs, particularly Autism and associated behaviours. Familiarise yourself with strategies for supporting emotional regulation and independence, as these will likely come up in your interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed challenging behaviours or supported pupils with additional needs. This will demonstrate your capability and understanding of the role.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with your interviewers. Show your nurturing side by discussing how you would create a safe and supportive environment for pupils. This is key in a role that revolves around relationships.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school's approach to supporting SEN pupils and their wellbeing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if the school’s values align with yours.