At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students 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 students' lives.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates with a passion for education and child development.
The predicted salary is between 18900 - 23100 £ 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 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 SEND-focused training, and ongoing professional development opportunities, employees are well-equipped to grow their careers in teaching or related fields. The supportive work culture fosters collaboration with experienced educators, ensuring that every Graduate Teaching Assistant can thrive in a nurturing environment while gaining invaluable hands-on experience across diverse educational settings in East Grinstead.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teaching Assistant - Graduates
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university alumni, join local education groups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more people you know in the field, the better your chances of landing that Teaching Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer at local schools or community centres to gain relevant skills and show your commitment to supporting children with SEN. This practical experience can really make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching common questions and practising your responses. Think about how your experiences relate to the role and be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported others in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications all in one place.
We think you need these skills to ace Teaching Assistant - Graduates
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 or working with children, as this will show us you're a great fit for the position.
Craft a Personalised Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about supporting children and young people, and how your background aligns with our mission at NextGen Teachers. Keep it friendly and engaging!
Showcase Your Skills:In both your CV and cover letter, make sure to showcase your communication and relationship-building skills. We want to see how you can connect with pupils and support their learning journey, so give us some examples!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our team!
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 genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children and young people shine through. Share any relevant experiences, whether from volunteering, internships, or personal projects, that demonstrate your commitment to supporting their development.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers about the school environment, team dynamics, or training opportunities. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Practice Behaviour Management Scenarios
Think about potential classroom scenarios you might face and how you would handle them. Being able to articulate your approach to behaviour management and emotional support will impress the interviewers and show you're prepared for the challenges of the role.
