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- Tasks: Support a Reception pupil with special educational needs on a 1-1 basis.
- Company: Join Smart Education, a leading agency in education recruitment focused on safeguarding children.
- Benefits: Enjoy weekly pay, holiday pay, free training, and dedicated support throughout your placement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a child's life while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and at least 2 years' experience with SEN pupils.
- Other info: Position starts in September 2025; term-time only hours from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 £ per year.
Location: Oldbury
Start Date: September 2025
Duration: Full Time, Term Time ONLY
Hours: 8.30 am – 3.30 pm
Smart Education are seeking 3 experienced and qualified Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistants to join a Catholic Primary School in Oldbury. This is a full-time, term-time only position that is due to start in September 2025. For this role, you will be required to work as a 1-1 SEN Teaching Assistant with a pupil in Reception. You will be required to work with a pupil who has an EHCP in place and with potential challenging behaviour. You will need to have at least a minimum of two years’ experience working with younger pupils who have additional needs. For this role as a SEN Teaching Assistant, the school would find it admirable for a successful candidate to know how to use other communication methods such as PECS and/or Makaton. Due to the nature of this role, the school are looking for someone who has prior experience with challenging behaviour and de-escalation. You will also need to liaise with the SENDco and the Class Teacher to ensure you are supporting and delivering sessions that are in line with the pupils' progression.
Job Requirements:
- Minimum Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualification (or a relevant subject)
- Must hold a Valid Child's Enhanced DBS certificate
- Minimum 2 years’ experience working within a school setting and with SEN pupils
- Ability to provide tailored support to meet individual student needs
- Lead and deliver sessions confidentially in and out of the classroom
- Clear understanding of Safeguarding surrounding children
- Encourage positive behaviour and emotional well-being
- Be able to provide targeted support to pupils across a range of abilities
- Contribute to a positive and inclusive learning environment
Benefits of working for Smart as a Teaching Assistant:
- Weekly Pay
- Paid to Scale
- Holiday Pay
- Free CPD training/course
- Dedicated consultant – ongoing support and guidance throughout your placement
About Smart Education: Smart Education is a specialist Education and Early Years recruitment agency, providing opportunities for Teachers, Teaching Assistants, SEND support Staff, Nursery Nurses and Tutors. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting children's and young people's welfare. If you feel as though this role is the right fit for you, please apply now! Alternatively, if you are looking for a role but this does not meet your needs, please get in touch to find out if we have any other roles that may be more suitable.
SEN Teaching Assistant - Reception Class employer: Smart Education Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Smart Education Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant - Reception Class
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of children with SEN, especially those in Reception. Understanding the nuances of their behaviour and communication methods like PECS and Makaton can set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, particularly those who work with SEN pupils. Attend local workshops or seminars to meet others in the field and gain insights that could be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with challenging behaviour and de-escalation techniques. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed such situations in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Catholic Primary School's ethos and values. Being able to articulate how your personal philosophy aligns with theirs can demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant - Reception Class
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience working with SEN pupils, particularly in a school setting. Include specific examples of how you've supported students with challenging behaviour and any relevant qualifications.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the specific requirements of the role. Mention your experience with communication methods like PECS or Makaton, and explain how you can contribute to a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly state your Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualification and mention your Enhanced DBS certificate. This will show that you meet the essential criteria for the position.
Showcase Your Understanding of Safeguarding: In your application, demonstrate your knowledge of safeguarding practices surrounding children. This is crucial for the role and will reflect your commitment to the welfare of the pupils.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smart Education Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience working with SEN pupils, especially in a 1-1 setting. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully supported students with challenging behaviour and how you tailored your approach to meet their individual needs.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Communication Methods
Since the role may require knowledge of PECS and Makaton, it’s a good idea to brush up on these communication methods. If you have experience using them, be ready to share how they helped improve communication with your students.
✨Understand Safeguarding Policies
Demonstrating a clear understanding of safeguarding principles is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure the safety and well-being of children in your care, and any relevant training or policies you are familiar with.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Having thoughtful questions ready shows your genuine interest in the role and the school. Consider asking about the school's approach to supporting SEN students, or how they foster an inclusive learning environment.
