At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex needs in a specialist school environment.
- Company: Join a dedicated team at a specialist school in Oldham.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience and training in a supportive setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN and a nurturing approach are essential.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and potential permanent position.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are seeking a patient, enthusiastic and dedicated SEN Classroom Assistant to join a specialist school in Oldham. In this role, you will support children with a range of complex needs, helping them access learning, develop essential life skills and feel safe, regulated and confident within the classroom environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the teacher in delivering differentiated, child‑centred activities tailored to individual SEN and EHCP targets.
- Build warm, trusting relationships that promote emotional regulation, engagement and positive behaviour.
- Provide 1:1 and small‑group support for pupils with diverse needs, including autism, SEMH, communication needs, sensory needs and developmental delays.
- Implement strategies recommended by SENCOs, therapists and pastoral staff to ensure consistency and progress.
- Assist in developing and following personalised support plans, sensory profiles and behavioural strategies.
- Encourage independence, communication and social interaction through structured routines, modelling and visual supports.
- Support pupils with emotional regulation, de‑escalation and therapeutic approaches in line with school policies.
- Maintain accurate notes, observations and safeguarding records as required.
Essential Requirements
- Experience supporting children with SEN, SEMH, additional needs or behavioural challenges.
- A calm, nurturing and resilient approach when supporting pupils through emotional or behavioural difficulties.
- Full availability Monday–Friday during school hours.
- Strong understanding of safeguarding, inclusive practice and trauma‑informed support.
- Ability to work effectively within a team and follow guidance from teaching and SEN staff.
Preferred but Not Essential
- Experience working in specialist or alternative provisions.
- Familiarity with sensory regulation strategies, visual communication (e.g., PECs), Makaton or de‑escalation techniques.
- Confidence contributing to observations, progress notes or SEN support documentation.
- Understanding of SEMH and therapeutic, relational behaviour approaches.
Vetting & Compliance
- This position requires two years of professional references.
- An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (assistance provided if needed).
- Overseas police checks if applicable.
Please note: Applications from outside the UK cannot be considered.
How to Apply
If you feel you are a strong match for this role, please apply with an up‑to‑date CV. A member of our team will be in touch regarding the next steps. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role.
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.
SEN classroom assistant in Oldham employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN classroom assistant in Oldham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research the specialist school in Oldham where you're applying. Understanding their approach to SEN can help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local education groups. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what they look for in a SEN Classroom Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios involving children with diverse needs. This will help you feel more confident and ready to showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions!
We think you need these skills to ace SEN classroom assistant in Oldham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with SEN and how you've supported children with diverse needs. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Show Your Passion: In your cover letter, let us know why you're excited about working as a SEN Classroom Assistant. Share any personal stories or experiences that showcase your enthusiasm for helping children thrive.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out your application, keep your language straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make it easy for us to see why you're a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs (SEN) and the specific challenges that come with them. Familiarise yourself with terms like SEMH, communication needs, and sensory strategies. This will show that you're not just passionate but also well-informed about the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
During the interview, share examples of how you've built trusting relationships with children in the past. Talk about times when you've successfully supported a child through emotional or behavioural difficulties. This will highlight your nurturing approach and ability to connect with pupils.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, like de-escalating a challenging behaviour or implementing a sensory strategy. Prepare by thinking through various scenarios and your responses. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to supporting SEN students or how they implement personalised support plans. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.