At a Glance
- Tasks: Support autistic learners with 1:1 and small group assistance to achieve their goals.
- Company: Pioneering specialist school dedicated to making a difference in education.
- Benefits: 56 days of holiday, fully-funded training, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Unique setting with excellent facilities and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact every day while developing your career in specialist education.
- Qualifications: GCSE in English Language and Maths; resilience and empathy are key.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Location: Near Cranleigh, Surrey (Dunsfold Airfield) - Driving is essential
Working Pattern: Term-time only (includes 56 days of holiday)
The Opportunity
Are you highly resilient, empathetic, and looking for a career where you can make a tangible difference every single day? We are recruiting dedicated SEN Teaching Assistants for a pioneering specialist school. This role is the perfect entry point into the world of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Whether you have personal experience with autism, a background in care, or a strong interest in psychology, this role offers exceptional, fully-funded training. For the right candidates, this position can act as a springboard to higher-level roles, including funded pathways to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Alongside the profound job satisfaction of helping autistic children and young adults thrive, you will enjoy a highly supportive team environment, 56 days of holiday, and access to a dedicated staff break room (complete with a mini-fridge and massage chair!).
About the Setting
You will join a specialist day school and adult education centre based on a unique, spacious site at Dunsfold Airfield, near Cranleigh. The highly resourced, predominantly indoor environment is tailored to accelerate learning. Facilities include specially equipped classrooms, adjoining sensory rooms, trampolines, and a yoga room. Class sizes are kept exceptionally small (maximum 6 to 8 students) and group learners by ability rather than age, ensuring every pupil receives the focused attention they deserve.
Our Methodology (The "Marmite" Filter)
We proudly utilise Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and are a certified CABAS® provider. This is a scientific, highly data-driven approach to education. You will be responsible for continuously "graphing" and tracking learner progress throughout the day. We break new skills down into manageable steps, heavily utilise positive reinforcement, and celebrate every single micro-victory. If you possess an analytical mind and find joy in seeing measurable, evidence-based progress, you will thrive here.
The Realities of the Role
We believe in honesty so that you are fully prepared for the realities of the classroom. Working on a 1:1 basis or in small groups, you will face and manage challenging behaviours. Crucially, our approach is strictly positive; we never use physical restraints on any of our students, relying entirely on proactive support and expert de-escalation techniques. Additionally, you will be required to provide intimate personal care, such as feeding or toileting, daily. The role is physically demanding, involving twisting, stooping, working at lower heights, and actively engaging in breaktime duties and off-site community visits.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide dedicated 1:1 and small group support to autistic learners to help them achieve their daily educational and developmental goals.
- Accurately record, track, and graph behavioural and academic data in real-time using our ABA methodology.
- Deliver dignified and compassionate intimate personal care.
- Proactively manage and de-escalate challenging behaviours using taught positive reinforcement techniques (strictly no physical interventions).
- Assist in setting up classrooms, sensory activities, and accompanying learners on community visits.
What We Are Looking For
While welcome, you do not need SEN experience to apply. We hire based on human characteristics and potential.
Qualifications: A minimum of a Grade C/4 (or equivalent) at GCSE in English Language and Maths.
Characteristics: Boundless emotional resilience, deep empathy, an interest in data/psychology, and the ability to remain calm and positive in high-pressure situations.
Transport: Due to the unique rural location at Dunsfold Airfield, you must be able to commute reliably.
Safeguarding & Compliance
We are deeply committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk. All applicants will be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Our vetting process is extraordinarily strict: all gaps in your education or employment history must be fully accounted for, and you must provide reasons for leaving all previous employment. Applicants must hold the right to work in the UK with no visas expiring within the next 12 months.
Share your CV and take a big step in the direction of your new career!
SEN Teaching Assistant — Data-Driven ABA Support employer: Randstad Education
Join a pioneering specialist school near Cranleigh, Surrey, where you can launch your career in Special Educational Needs (SEN) as a Teaching Assistant. Enjoy a supportive work culture with exceptional training opportunities, including pathways to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and benefit from 56 days of holiday each year. With a focus on positive reinforcement and a highly resourced environment tailored for learning, you'll make a meaningful impact while working alongside a dedicated team in a unique setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant — Data-Driven ABA Support
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research the specialist school’s approach to SEN and ABA methodology. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the role and the school culture, which can give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical scenarios! Think about how you would handle challenging behaviours or support a learner in a 1:1 setting. Being ready to discuss real-life examples will impress interviewers and show your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant — Data-Driven ABA Support
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with SEN learners shine through. We want to see your genuine interest in making a difference and how your personal experiences or interests align with our mission.
Be Specific About Your Skills:Highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have, especially those related to empathy, resilience, or data analysis. We love seeing how you can contribute to our positive reinforcement approach and support our learners effectively.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Use keywords from the job description, like '1:1 support' and 'ABA methodology', to show that you understand what we’re looking for. This helps us see you as a great fit right away!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Education
✨Know Your ABA Basics
Familiarise yourself with the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) before the interview. Understanding how data-driven methods work will show your genuine interest in the role and help you articulate how you can contribute to tracking learner progress.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Prepare examples that highlight your emotional resilience and empathy. Think about situations where you've supported someone in need or managed challenging behaviours, as these qualities are crucial for a SEN Teaching Assistant.
✨Be Ready for Realities
Understand the physical demands of the role, including providing personal care and managing challenging behaviours. Be honest about your comfort level with these tasks, as this transparency will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Interest in Psychology
Express your passion for psychology and how it relates to education. Share any relevant experiences or knowledge that could enhance your ability to support autistic learners, making it clear that you're eager to learn and grow in this field.
