At a Glance
- Tasks: Support pupils with special educational needs through tailored 1:1 and small group assistance.
- Company: A welcoming specialist SEN school in Blackburn dedicated to inclusive education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and enjoy a fulfilling role in a dynamic educational setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with additional needs and foster their independence.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEN and a relevant qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning is preferred.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We are seeking a committed, caring, and experienced SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist SEN school in Blackburn, supporting pupils with a range of additional needs across early years, primary, and secondary age groups. This role involves providing tailored 1:1 and small group support to help pupils access learning, develop independence, and achieve their individual potential. The successful candidate will have previous experience working with children or young people with special educational needs and a genuine passion for inclusive education.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide SEN support: Deliver 1:1 and small group support to pupils with a variety of needs, including autism, ADHD, SEMH, and communication difficulties, adapting support to suit different age groups and abilities.
- Support learning and development: Assist pupils in accessing the curriculum through differentiated activities, sensory strategies, and tailored interventions in line with their Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
- Promote inclusion and engagement: Foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment that encourages positive behaviour, engagement, and confidence.
- Work collaboratively: Liaise closely with class teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and other professionals to implement and review EHCP targets and personalised support strategies.
- Social, emotional, and behavioural support: Support pupils’ emotional regulation, communication skills, and social development, using appropriate behaviour and de-escalation strategies where required.
- Monitor and record progress: Observe, record, and report on pupils’ progress, behaviour, and development, contributing to reviews and meetings as required.
- Personal care and physical support: Assist with personal care, mobility, or medical needs when necessary, ensuring pupils’ dignity, safety, and wellbeing at all times.
Requirements
- Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEN in a school or specialist setting (essential).
- A relevant qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning (Level 2 or 3) or equivalent is desirable.
- Strong understanding of a range of special educational needs, including autism, ADHD, SEMH, and speech and language needs.
- A calm, patient, and empathetic approach, with the ability to build positive relationships with pupils of varying ages.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team and communicate clearly with staff, pupils, and families.
- Willingness to support pupils with personal care and behavioural needs.
- Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain one).
Competitive salary, dependent on experience. Ongoing professional development and SEN-specific training opportunities. A supportive and welcoming specialist school environment. The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives and learning outcomes of children and young people with SEN.
SEN Teaching Assistant in Blackburn employer: Veritas-Education-Recruitmen
Contact Detail:
Veritas-Education-Recruitmen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SEN Teaching Assistant in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who work 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 support. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role – we want to hear your passion for inclusive education!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of how you've supported children with SEN in the past. Whether it’s through portfolios or anecdotes, let us see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace SEN Teaching Assistant in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for inclusive education shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the lives of pupils with special educational needs.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience working with children or young people with SEN. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to support diverse needs and adapt your approach.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity to join our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Veritas-Education-Recruitmen
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs, especially the specific conditions mentioned in the job description like autism and ADHD. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported children with SEN. Whether it’s a specific strategy you used or a challenge you overcame, having concrete examples ready will help you stand out.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Patience
During the interview, convey your calm and patient approach. You might be asked how you would handle certain situations, so think about how you can illustrate your ability to build positive relationships with pupils and manage their emotional needs.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school's approach to inclusion or how they support their staff's professional development. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to being part of their team.