At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with Special Educational Needs in a classroom setting.
- Company: NextGen Teachers, dedicated to inclusive education and student support.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free training, and long-term career development opportunities.
- Other info: Ideal for aspiring teachers and those interested in mental health support.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience while making a real difference in children's lives.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates with a passion for education and child development.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 25350 £ per year.
Location: East Grinstead
Pay: £90–£110 per day (dependent on experience)
Contract: Full-Time | Long-Term Opportunities Available
Start Date: September 2026 / ASAP
Are you a recent graduate looking to gain meaningful experience in education, SEN, or mental health support? NextGen Teachers are recruiting Graduate Teaching Assistants to work across specialist and mainstream schools throughout West Sussex. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on classroom experience while supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN / SEND). Whether you’re considering a future in Teaching, Educational Psychology, Speech & Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Counselling, or Child Mental Health, this role provides valuable practical experience, ongoing training, and long-term career development.
The Role
As a Graduate Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers, SENCOs, and pastoral teams to support pupils both academically and emotionally within the classroom. You will help pupils engage with learning, build confidence, and develop important communication, social, and emotional skills in a supportive school environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Assisting with classroom learning and engagement
- Supporting behaviour regulation and emotional wellbeing
- Helping pupils develop communication and social skills
- Encouraging independence, confidence, and positive routines
- Creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment
- Working collaboratively with teachers and SEN staff
Why Join NextGen Teachers?
- Competitive daily pay rates of £90–£110
- Free SEND-focused training and CPD opportunities
- Hands-on experience across specialist and mainstream schools
- Ongoing support from experienced education consultants
- Opportunity to explore SEN, SEMH, Autism, and mental health settings
- Excellent progression routes into teaching and specialist careers
- Long-term placements with temp-to-perm opportunities available
Who This Role Would Suit
- Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, or Education graduates
- Aspiring teachers or Educational Psychologists
- Graduates interested in SEN / SEMH and inclusive education
- Individuals passionate about mental health and child development
- Candidates with experience in care, coaching, youth work, or mentoring
Requirements
- A recent degree in any subject
- A proactive, resilient, and adaptable approach
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- A genuine passion for supporting children and young people
- Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one)
Training & Development
You will receive access to specialist training including:
- Autism and SEND awareness
- Behaviour management and de-escalation strategies
- Safeguarding and child protection
- Inclusive classroom practice
- Communication and engagement techniques
Teaching Assistant - Graduates in East Grinstead employer: NextGen Teachers
NextGen Teachers is an exceptional employer for recent graduates seeking to make a meaningful impact in education, particularly in Special Educational Needs (SEN) support. With competitive pay rates, free training opportunities, and a strong focus on professional development, employees can expect a supportive work culture that fosters growth and collaboration. Located in East Grinstead, the role offers hands-on experience in both specialist and mainstream schools, paving the way for a rewarding career in teaching or related fields.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - Graduates in East Grinstead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, join local education groups on social media, and connect with professionals in the field. You never know who might have a lead on a teaching assistant role or can offer you some insider tips.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer at local schools or community centres to build your skills and show your commitment to supporting children with SEN. This practical experience will make you stand out when applying for roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching common questions and practising your responses. Focus on how your background in psychology or sociology can help you support students effectively. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that match your skills and interests. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - Graduates in East Grinstead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Teaching Assistant role. Highlight any experience you have with SEN, education, or working with children, as this will show us you're a great fit for the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for education and supporting children with special needs. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in similar roles or situations.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your communication and relationship-building skills in action. Mention any relevant training or experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with young people and support their learning and emotional wellbeing.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us quickly and easily, apply directly through our website. This way, we can review your application faster and get back to you about the next steps in the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at NextGen Teachers
✨Know Your SEN Basics
Familiarise yourself with the key concepts of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and how they impact learning. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you might use to support students with different needs, as this shows your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for education and child development shine through. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your dedication to supporting young people, especially those with additional needs.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers about their approach to SEN and the support systems in place. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if the school aligns with your values and career goals.
✨Practice Behaviour Management Scenarios
Be prepared to discuss how you would handle various classroom situations, particularly around behaviour management and emotional support. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges.
