At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with special needs in a rewarding and impactful role.
- Company: Join a compassionate team at SENCare Recruitment, dedicated to making a difference.
- Benefits: Earn up to £26,189, enjoy free lunches, and receive ongoing training.
- Other info: Flexible hours available; excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your compassion and patience.
We are looking for compassionate and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistants to join a growing specialist education team. As student numbers increase, this is your opportunity to become part of a highly supportive and rewarding environment where every day brings the chance to make a genuine impact.
This is not a mainstream Teaching Assistant role. You will support children and young people aged 5–19 with severe social communication difficulties, complex learning disabilities, and, in some cases, challenging behaviours. You will help students access a therapy-based education, develop life skills, and achieve greater independence in preparation for life beyond school or college.
The Role
- Work within small classes of 8–13 students, grouped by ability and social needs rather than age.
- Support learning across literacy, numeracy, PSHE, and daily living skills.
- Help students communicate using Makaton, signs, symbols, and communication aids through a multi-sensory approach.
- Provide emotional support and guidance to students experiencing anxiety, frustration, or behavioural challenges.
- Work collaboratively within a skilled and supportive multidisciplinary team.
Some students require personal care support, and full training will be provided.
Training & Development
Comprehensive training is provided from day one, making this an excellent opportunity for both experienced Teaching Assistants and those looking to begin a career in specialist education.
- Twice-weekly training sessions combining practical and theoretical learning.
- A fully funded Teaching Assistant apprenticeship qualification.
- Team Teach Positive Behaviour Support Training during induction.
- Ongoing refresher training and mentoring support.
- Continuous professional development opportunities to help you progress your career.
What We’re Looking For
- Previous experience is not essential. We are looking for individuals who are:
- Compassionate, patient, and resilient.
- Calm under pressure and able to support young people with complex needs.
- Strong communicators who can work effectively with students, families, and professionals.
- Able to work safely and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Comfortable providing personal care where required.
You will also need a good standard of literacy and numeracy to support learning and complete records and reports.
Working Hours
36 hours per week
- Monday: 8:30am – 4:00pm
- Tuesday to Thursday: 8:30am – 4:15pm
- Friday: 8:30am – 3:45pm
Includes 30 minutes of admin time per week. Part-time applications (minimum 3 days per week) may be considered, although reduced daily hours are not available.
Salary & Career Progression
- Teaching Assistant: £21,599 – £22,462 pro rata; £25,183 – £26,189 FTE
- Senior Teaching Assistant: Following completion of the funded apprenticeship and two years’ service: £23,337 – £25,632 pro rata; £27,209 – £29,884 FTE
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA): Unqualified HLTA: £26,532 pro rata (£29,884 FTE); Qualified HLTA: £29,600 pro rata (£34,511 FTE)
All salaries include the 2026 cost-of-living increase effective from 1 April 2026.
Benefits
- Employees benefit from a supportive and inclusive workplace, with excellent wellbeing and development support, including:
- Fully funded nationally accredited Teaching Assistant qualification
- £1,000 retention bonus
- Life Assurance and Medical Cash Plan (after qualifying period)
- Ongoing Team Teach and inclusion support training
- Personalised CPD and regular appraisals
- Free hot lunches during term time
- Free on-site parking
- Employee Assistance Programme with confidential wellbeing support
- Access to Mental Health First Aiders and Occupational Health services
About us: SENCare Recruitment provides Special Educational Needs (SEN) professionals for SEN schools, mainstream schools, residential care homes and 1-1 home support through local authorities, across the UK. We can offer short/long term placements on a temporary and permanent basis for specialist SEN teachers, teaching assistants, support workers, social workers, VI/HI practitioners and mid-day meal supervisors.
If you feel this would be the ideal vacancy for you, then please apply below or contact our team direct and ask for John Stokes @ SENCare Recruitment.
SENCare Recruitment is fully committed to the safety and welfare of children, and by applying for this vacancy, you are consenting to SENCare Recruitment Ltd storing your personal details in line with the new GDPR regulations.
SEN Teaching Assistant in Cranleigh employer: SENCare Recruitment Ltd
SENCare Recruitment is an exceptional employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive work environment in Cranleigh, Surrey, where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people with special educational needs. With comprehensive training, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, including free hot lunches and a retention bonus, SENCare ensures that every team member feels valued and supported in their career journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant in Cranleigh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved 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 roles. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios and be ready to share your thoughts on supporting students with complex needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your enthusiasm for working with SEN students shine through. Share any relevant experiences or volunteer work that highlights your commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant in Cranleigh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Compassion:When writing your application, let your compassionate side shine through! Share any experiences that highlight your patience and resilience, especially when working with young people who have complex needs.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the role of SEN Teaching Assistant. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with supporting students with social communication difficulties and learning disabilities.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your qualifications and experiences, ensuring we can easily see how you fit into our supportive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on board to make a genuine impact!
How to prepare for a job interview at SENCare Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your SEN Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN). Familiarise yourself with common challenges faced by students with social communication difficulties and complex learning disabilities. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to supporting these students.
✨Showcase Your Compassion
During the interview, share personal experiences or examples that highlight your compassion and patience. Whether it's a volunteer role or a personal story, demonstrating your ability to connect with young people in challenging situations can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice explaining how you would support students using Makaton or other communication aids. Be ready to discuss how you would adapt your communication style to meet the needs of different students, showing that you can be flexible and responsive.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to SEN education and the support available for staff. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and career goals.
