At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with Autism, SEMH needs, and ADHD in a nurturing classroom environment.
- Company: A supportive school dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Flexible short-term and long-term opportunities, plus free Thrive training.
- Other info: Join a team that values emotional intelligence and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by helping children feel safe and confident at school.
- Qualifications: Empathy, patience, and experience working with children or young people.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 € per year.
Some children need more than academic support. They need patience, understanding, and someone who genuinely believes in them.
We're currently looking for SEN Teaching Assistants for the summer term, with a mix of short-term and long-term supply opportunities across supportive school settings.
If you're someone who brings calm, consistency, and real empathy into the classroom, this could be a great next step. This role is ideal for someone who understands that every child experiences school differently. You'll notice when a pupil is becoming overwhelmed, help them regulate big emotions, and give them the reassurance they need to stay engaged and feel safe. Your presence really matters here. The way you connect, reassure, and show up each day can completely change a child's experience of school.
What you'll be doing
- Supporting pupils with Autism, SEMH needs, and ADHD in classroom and structured learning settings
- Helping children navigate transitions, routines, and the school day with confidence
- Using clear communication, patience, and encouragement to support engagement
- Recognising emotional triggers and supporting pupils to regulate feelings
- Encouraging focus and positive behaviour through structure and reassurance
- Working closely with teachers and SEND teams to create a calm, consistent environment
What we're looking for
- A naturally empathetic, patient, and calm approach
- Strong emotional intelligence and genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
- Experience working with children or young people in schools, care, youth work, or similar settings
- A consistent presence that helps pupils feel safe and understood
- An understanding that progress looks different for every child, and that's okay
Why this role matters
For pupils with Autism, SEMH needs, or ADHD, the school day can feel overwhelming at times. The right support can change everything, helping them feel safe, build trust, and grow in confidence. You won't just be supporting learning. You'll be helping shape how a child feels about school, and what they believe they're capable of.
A quick note from us: If you're Thrive trained, brilliant, we'd love to hear about it. If not, we can support you with access to our free Thrive training, which can really strengthen your impact in SEND settings.
Locations
SEN Teaching Assistant (ASD/SEMH/ADHD Support) in Kent, Tonbridge employer: Protocol Education
Join a compassionate and supportive team dedicated to making a real difference in the lives of children with Autism, SEMH needs, and ADHD. Our work culture prioritises empathy and understanding, offering ongoing training opportunities such as free Thrive training to enhance your skills. With both short-term and long-term supply roles available, you will find a fulfilling environment where your contributions are valued and every child's progress is celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant (ASD/SEMH/ADHD Support) in Kent, Tonbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, join relevant groups on social media, and attend local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a SEN Teaching Assistant role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up with confidence! When you get an interview, be sure to highlight your empathy and patience. Share specific examples of how you've supported children with additional needs in the past – it’ll show you’re the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities for SEN Teaching Assistants, both short-term and long-term. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you a leg up in the hiring process.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant (ASD/SEMH/ADHD Support) in Kent, Tonbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Empathy:When writing your application, let your genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs shine through. Share personal experiences or insights that highlight your empathetic approach and understanding of the challenges these pupils face.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and qualities mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience with Autism, SEMH, and ADHD support, and how you can bring calm and consistency to the classroom.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear communication to express your thoughts, and avoid jargon. This will help us see your ability to communicate effectively, which is crucial in a teaching assistant role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the specific needs of children with Autism, SEMH, and ADHD. Familiarise yourself with strategies to support these pupils, as well as any relevant training like Thrive. This shows your commitment and readiness to make a difference.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, share personal experiences that highlight your empathetic approach. Talk about times when you've successfully supported children or young people, especially in challenging situations. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with pupils on an emotional level.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios
Prepare for scenario-based questions where you might need to explain how you'd handle specific situations, like helping a child who is becoming overwhelmed. Think through your responses in advance, focusing on patience, clear communication, and reassurance.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting SEND pupils or how they foster a calm environment. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
