At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teenagers with additional learning needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Dynamic secondary school focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Starting pay of £93 per day, training provided, and potential for permanent role.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy varied daily activities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives every day.
- Qualifications: No formal experience needed; patience and empathy are key.
FULL TIME TEACHING ASSISTANTS – SEPTEMBER 2026 START Barry, CF62 | Secondary School Additional Needs Base Full Academic Year | Monday to Friday | 08:10am – 15:10pm Starting from £93 per day
Are you passionate about supporting teenagers who learn differently? Looking for a rewarding role where every day genuinely makes a difference? We are recruiting Full Time Teaching Assistants to work within a specialist Additional Needs Base inside a secondary school in Barry (CF62), starting September 2026 for the full academic year. This is not a mainstream classroom role. You will be supporting teenagers with additional learning needs including Autism, ADHD, SEMH (Social, Emotional & Mental Health needs) and highly anxious learners in a smaller, more supportive setting designed around their needs.
No formal education experience? That’s absolutely fine. We are looking for patient, resilient and adaptable individuals from a range of backgrounds who understand the importance of positive relationships, encouragement and emotional support.
This role is PERFECT for people with experience in:
- Sports coaching
- Psychology or counselling studies
- Care work or support work
- Youth work
- Nursery or childcare settings
- Mental health support
- Recent graduates in English, Maths, Science or core subjects
- Anyone with personal or professional understanding of learning difficulties
The role involves:
- Supporting teenagers on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
- Helping pupils engage with school work up to GCSE level
- Building confidence, communication and emotional regulation
- Supporting pupils with Autism, ADHD and SEMH needs
- Working with highly anxious learners who need calm, consistent support
- Encouraging positive behaviour and social interaction
- Taking part in practical activities including baking, cooking, arts and crafts
- Supporting educational trips and outdoor activities
- Creating a safe, supportive and engaging learning environment
We are looking for people who are:
- Calm under pressure
- Patient and empathetic
- Resilient and adaptable to change
- Confident building relationships with teenagers
- Positive, proactive and encouraging
- Comfortable supporting challenging behaviour when required
- Passionate about helping young people succeed
This is an incredibly rewarding opportunity to have a genuine impact on the lives of young people who need support, understanding and consistency to thrive both academically and emotionally. If you want a role where no two days are the same and where you can truly make a difference every single day, we would love to hear from you.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.
Full-time Teaching Assistant, SEN bases employer: Teaching Personnel
Teaching Personnel is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling opportunity to work as a Full-time Teaching Assistant in Barry's specialist Additional Needs Base. With a strong commitment to employee development and a supportive work culture, we provide comprehensive training and resources to help you thrive in your role, making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people with additional learning needs. Join us for a rewarding experience where your passion for education and support can truly shine.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Full-time Teaching Assistant, SEN bases
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education or related fields. Let them know you're on the lookout for a Teaching Assistant role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events or workshops related to education and special needs. This not only boosts your CV but also helps you meet potential employers and showcase your passion for supporting young people.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to teaching assistants. Think about scenarios where you've demonstrated patience, resilience, and adaptability. We want you to shine when it comes to showing how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love hearing from passionate individuals ready to support teenagers with additional needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Full-time Teaching Assistant, SEN bases
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for supporting teenagers with additional needs. Share any personal experiences or insights that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to know how your background aligns with the role of a Teaching Assistant in an SEN base.
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We appreciate genuine applicants who can connect with our students. Share your unique story and what drives you to work in this rewarding field.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of teenagers with Autism, ADHD, and SEMH. This will help you demonstrate your passion for supporting these learners and show that you’re ready to make a difference.
✨Share Your Experiences
Even if you don’t have formal education experience, think about how your background in sports coaching, youth work, or care can relate to this role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported individuals in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Show Your Empathy
During the interview, highlight your patience and empathy. Discuss how you build positive relationships and encourage emotional support. This is crucial for working with teenagers who may be anxious or struggling, so make sure to convey your understanding of their needs.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show your interest in the role and the school environment. Ask about the strategies they use to support students with additional needs or how they foster a positive learning atmosphere. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.