At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with special educational needs in a nurturing primary school environment.
- Company: Welcoming primary school in Cambridge, committed to inclusivity and pupil wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, high-quality training, and potential pathways into teacher training.
- Other info: Full-time, term-time only contract with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Proactive, compassionate individuals with strong communication skills; degree preferred.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
This Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant opportunity is based in a welcoming primary school in Cambridge, rated Good by Ofsted and recognised for its inclusive ethos, high expectations and commitment to pupil wellbeing. Drawing on best practice through a broad and ambitious curriculum, calm and consistent behaviour systems, and carefully tailored Special Educational Needs provision, the school provides a nurturing environment where pupils with ASD, ADHD and SEMH needs are supported to succeed both academically and personally.
The school places a strong emphasis on collaboration, effective communication with families, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. Staff work closely together to deliver targeted support that promotes pupils' academic progress, social development and emotional wellbeing, making this an excellent setting for a dedicated Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant looking to make a meaningful impact.
What the School Offers:- High-quality staff training and regular CPD linked to Special Educational Needs and classroom practice
- Clear, supportive behaviour systems that help pupils feel safe and ready to learn
- A strong induction and mentoring programme for support staff
- A collaborative team culture with close guidance from teachers and inclusion staff
- Genuine pathways into teacher training or extended contracts for high-performing staff
- Providing 1:1 and small-group support for pupils with Special Educational Needs in a primary setting
- Supporting children with ASD, ADHD and SEMH needs across lessons and routines
- Helping to adapt activities so every child can access learning successfully
- Promoting engagement, confidence, communication and positive behaviour
The ideal Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant will be proactive, compassionate and committed, with strong communication skills and a genuine willingness to learn. A 2:1 or 1st Class degree from a top 30 UK university is highly desirable, and previous child-centred experience is valued. Please note, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK, as we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
Salary and Contract Info:- £444 per week, pro rata (term time only)
- Full-time, long-term contract from September 2026 to July 2027
- Term-time only
- Potential for future teacher training or an extended contract following a successful placement
If you are a passionate Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant eager to build meaningful school-based experience, this role offers the chance to join a thriving, supportive primary setting in Cambridge and make a real difference from day one.
Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant in Cambridge employer: RIBBONS AND REEVES
Ribbons & Reeves is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment for Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants in Cambridge. With a strong emphasis on professional development, collaborative team culture, and clear pathways into teacher training, staff are supported to thrive both personally and professionally. This primary school, rated Good by Ofsted, prioritises pupil wellbeing and academic success, making it an ideal place for dedicated individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant in Cambridge
✨Connect with Local Educational Institutions
Get involved with universities and colleges in your area, especially those that offer adult continuing education programmes. Attend open days or even guest lectures to network with faculty members and find out about potential job openings before they even get advertised.
✨Leverage Professional Education Networks
Join professional networks focused on adult education, such as the Adult Learning Australia or the International Society for Technology in Education. These communities often have job boards or can point you towards opportunities at places like RIBBONS AND REEVES just waiting for the right candidate!
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
In your interviews, share your own experiences and thoughts on lifelong learning. Highlight any courses or workshops you've taken recently to demonstrate your commitment to personal development and the importance of education. This is a big plus for roles in this field!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out our careers page at RIBBONS AND REEVES. Applying directly through our website not only makes your application stand out but also shows you're genuinely interested in joining us. We love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience in Education:When crafting your CV for the Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant role, make sure to emphasise any relevant experience in adult or continuing education. This could be teaching credentials, training sessions you've facilitated, or programmes you’ve developed. The more specific you can be about your contributions and outcomes, the better!
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:In the adult continuing education sector, strong communication and interpersonal skills are key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you’ve worked with diverse groups or handled different learning styles. Let us see how you've engaged learners—you’re selling your teaching style here!
Connect Your Passion to Our Mission:At RIBBONS AND REEVES, we value candidates who resonate with our mission to empower lifelong learners. Make sure your cover letter reflects your passion for adult education and your alignment with our goals. A genuine connection can really make your application stand out!
Keep it Professional Yet Personable:While it’s important to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our learners, so a friendly, approachable tone can help convey that vibe in your written materials. Apply through our website and let us see the real you!
How to prepare for a job interview at RIBBONS AND REEVES
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
When interviewing for a role in adult continuing education at RIBBONS AND REEVES, it's super important to highlight your passion for lifelong learning. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to education and how you've fostered a love for learning in others – this is something hiring managers love to see!
✨Prepare for Adult Education Methodologies
Be ready to dive into your knowledge of andragogy and educational theories during the interview. Expect questions about how you would adapt your teaching styles for adult learners – think about specific strategies you’ve used in the past and be prepared to discuss how they positively impacted your students.
✨Discuss Your Experience with Diverse Learners
At RIBBONS AND REEVES, you’ll likely encounter a diverse range of adult learners, so don’t shy away from discussing your experience with different demographics. Be prepared to share your successes in engaging learners from varied backgrounds, and how your approach has adapted to meet their unique needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Ability to Collaborate
Given that this is a full-time role, teamwork will be essential. Be ready to talk about your experiences working in collaborative settings, whether it be with fellow educators, administrators, or community partners. Highlight specific projects where your collaborative efforts contributed to successful educational outcomes.