At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a nurturing school environment.
- Company: Principal Education, dedicated to inclusive education in South East London.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, potential for higher rates, and valuable SEN experience.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN and a compassionate, resilient attitude.
- Other info: Full-time roles with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Principal Education is seeking compassionate, resilient, and dedicated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to work in specialist SEN settings across South East London. These roles are ideal for individuals committed to supporting children and young people with complex additional needs, helping them access education in a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.
The Role: As an SEN LSA, you will support pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and a range of additional needs, which may include:
- Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
- ADHD
- Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
- Moderate to Severe Learning Difficulties (MLD/SLD)
- Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH)
- Challenging behaviour linked to underlying needs
You will work either 1:1 or with small groups, implementing personalised support strategies, behaviour plans, and sensory approaches tailored to each child. Working closely with class teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and pastoral teams, you will help create a consistent, structured, and inclusive learning environment. These positions are typically full-time (Monday to Friday) and require reliability, emotional resilience, and a proactive approach.
What you MUST demonstrate:
- Right to work in the UK
- Proven experience supporting children or young people with SEN, complex needs, or behavioural challenges
- Understanding of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, or positive behaviour support
- Patience, empathy, emotional regulation, and professional boundaries
- Ability to de-escalate challenging situations calmly and effectively
- Flexibility and adaptability within dynamic school environments
- Recent enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one)
- Overseas police clearance (if lived abroad for 6+ months within the last 5 years)
- Based in London or within a commutable distance
Experience in specialist schools, alternative provisions, PRUs, or care settings is highly desirable.
Pay and Benefits:
- £100 - £125 per day
- Potential for higher rates in long-term or ongoing placements (aligned with school pay scales)
- Opportunity to develop specialist SEN experience
- The chance to make a meaningful, lasting difference in the lives of children with additional needs
Apply Now: To discuss this opportunity or your suitability, please contact Rob Michael.
Specialised SEN support assistants required for schools in Croydon, La in City of London employer: Principal Education
Contact Detail:
Principal Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialised SEN support assistants required for schools in Croydon, La in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know of openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEN support. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know why you care about supporting children with additional needs. Your enthusiasm can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for dedicated individuals like you.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialised SEN support assistants required for schools in Croydon, La in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for supporting children with SEN shine through. We want to see your commitment to making a difference in their lives, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your dedication.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with SEN and any specific needs mentioned in the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
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 enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Principal Education
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the specific needs mentioned in the job description, like Autism Spectrum Condition and ADHD. Being able to discuss these conditions and how they affect learning will show your understanding and commitment to supporting children with complex needs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children or young people with SEN. Whether it’s a specific strategy you implemented or a challenging situation you navigated, having concrete examples ready will demonstrate your capability and resilience.
✨Emphasise Emotional Resilience
This role requires a lot of patience and emotional regulation. Be ready to talk about how you handle stress and maintain professionalism in challenging situations. Sharing a personal story about overcoming a tough moment can really resonate with interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the support systems in place for LSAs or how the school approaches behaviour management. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the environment is right for you.