At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with complex needs in a nurturing and engaging learning environment.
- Company: Philosophy Education, a specialist education recruitment agency.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, ongoing professional training, and supportive consultants.
- Other info: Flexible full-time roles available with excellent support and development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in teaching or care roles, strong communication skills, and a caring attitude.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Southwark
Contract: Full-time and flexible cover roles available
Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm, Monday to Friday
Pay: £103 – £115 per day (Umbrella)
Philosophy Education is currently recruiting Special Needs Teaching Assistants to work full-time in specialist SEND schools across Southwark from September 2026. These schools cater for children and young people with a range of learning and developmental needs, including Visual Impairments, Autism, Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
About the Role
As a Special Needs Teaching Assistant, you will play an essential role in supporting pupils' learning, wellbeing, and independence throughout the school day. You'll work closely with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to deliver tailored learning activities, provide personal care, and create a calm, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support pupils with visual, physical, and communication needs during classroom and sensory‐based learning.
- Provide personal care, including feeding and mobility support, where required.
- Use clear and adaptable communication methods to meet the individual needs of pupils.
- Assist students with emotional regulation and behaviour management, using positive and consistent strategies.
- Encourage confidence, independence, and social interaction among pupils.
- Work collaboratively with teachers and therapy teams to deliver individual learning plans.
Ideal Candidates
We welcome applications from:
- Experienced Teaching Assistants seeking a SEND‐focused role.
- Healthcare, social care, or youth support workers with transferable skills.
- Individuals with a genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs.
Requirements
- A caring, patient, and professional approach.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- A genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
- An Enhanced DBS certificate (or willingness to obtain one).
- Two professional references covering the past two years.
Why Join Philosophy Education?
- Work with a specialist education recruitment agency that values your experience and development.
- Access to ongoing professional training in SEND, behaviour management, and classroom support.
- Supportive consultants who match you to roles where you can make the most impact.
SEN TA – Complex Needs Placement in London employer: Philosophy Education, Ltd.
Philosophy Education is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. With access to ongoing training in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and a dedicated team of consultants, you will be empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with complex needs in Southwark. Join us to be part of a community that values your contributions and fosters a rewarding career in education.
Contact Details:
Philosophy Education, Ltd. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN TA – Complex Needs Placement in London
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
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✨Join Student and Professional Networks
Tap into student networks and professional bodies related to social work. Attend events or workshops they organise, as this is a great way to meet people in the field and make valuable connections that could lead to placements at places like Philosophy Education, Ltd..
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Start a blog or a social media page dedicated to social work topics. Share your thoughts on relevant issues or spotlight local projects you're involved in. This helps build your visibility and shows that you’re passionate, which placement providers like Philosophy Education, Ltd. will definitely notice!
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Many social work placements have specific application windows, so keep an eye on these and prepare early. Use university career services to refine your approach and research organisations like Philosophy Education, Ltd. that align with your values and aspirations!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN TA – Complex Needs Placement in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Empathy Skills:In social work, empathy isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the heart of the profession! Use your cover letter to highlight specific experiences where you've demonstrated compassion and understanding. Whether it's through volunteer work, previous placements, or even personal experiences, make sure Philosophy Education, Ltd. sees your human side.
Tailor Your CV to Highlight Relevant Experiences:When crafting your CV, focus on your relevant experiences in social work or related fields. Include any placements, volunteering, or coursework that showcase your understanding of social issues. Don’t forget to mention any specific training or certifications you've acquired – it’s these details that’ll catch Philosophy Education, Ltd.'s attention!
Express Your Passion for Learning:Since this is a placement, show us how eager you are to learn and grow in the field of social work. In your cover letter, talk about why you chose social work as a career. This is your chance to convey your enthusiasm for making a difference and your commitment to developing your skills on the job.
Include Real-World Examples:When discussing your skills and experiences, try to include concrete examples that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and teamwork. Whether it’s a group project from your studies, a case study you’ve worked on, or even life experiences, make those details shine in your application to show how you'd fit into the Philosophy Education, Ltd. team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Philosophy Education, Ltd.
✨Show Your Passion for Helping Others
When it comes to social work placements, it's all about demonstrating your commitment to making a difference. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your motivation for joining this field. We want to see that you've got that genuine passion and empathy that makes a great social worker.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving abilities and ethical judgement. They might ask how you’d handle a challenging client or navigate a sensitive situation, so think through your responses and be ready to show how you can apply your knowledge in real-life contexts. It’s a good idea to review common case studies in social work to get into the right mindset.
✨Know Your Theories
Brush up on the key social work theories and frameworks that underpin practice. Being able to reference these during your interview can really impress your interviewers at Philosophy Education, Ltd.. We suggest relating them to your own understanding of situations, showing you're ready to apply theory to practice.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
Since this is a placement, your potential for growth is just as important as your current skills. Make sure to express your eagerness to learn from experienced professionals and your openness to feedback. Discuss how you plan to develop during your time at Philosophy Education, Ltd. and how that aligns with your career goals in social work.
