1:1 SEN Teaching Assistant

The Education Network; Wolverhampton; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

The Education Network in Wolverhampton is seeking a 1:1 SEN Teaching Assistant to support a primary pupil with autism and Down syndrome. You will assist with communication, literacy and numeracy, and help embed individual support plans within daily routines.

This role offers immersive experience in SEN education, development of strategies with teachers and SENCO, and opportunities for graduate progression into Educational Psychology or specialist child development careers.

Qualifications

• Degree in Psychology or closely related field with child development content.
• GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above to support primary literacy and numeracy.

Responsibilities

• Provide consistent 1:1 classroom support for a child with autism and Down syndrome.
• Use visual timetables, prompts and simplified instructions to aid learning.
• Develop early literacy and numeracy skills through structured activities.
• Encourage communication and social interaction using speech and language strategies.
• Support transitions, sensory regulation and emotional wellbeing throughout the day.

Skills

SEN knowledge

Communication

Patience

Adaptability

Education

Degree in Psychology / Developmental Psychology / Educational Psychology

GCSE English and Maths (grade 4/C or above)

Job description

1:1 SEN Teaching Assistant

Are you a Psychology graduate looking to develop your understanding of complex special educational needs through dedicated 1:1 classroom support? This SEN Teaching Assistant opportunity in Wolverhampton will see you work closely with a primary-aged child who has autism and Down syndrome, providing personalised assistance with communication, academic learning and everyday school routines. You will develop practical experience of adapting educational activities, implementing individual support strategies and encouraging greater independence, making this an excellent opportunity for graduates considering Educational Psychology, SEN teaching or specialist child development careers.

• 1:1 SEN Teaching Assistant
• £413 - £505 per week
• Primary school based in Wolverhampton
• Immediate start until July 2027
• Dedicated 1:1 support for a child with autism and Down syndrome

Your Duties

• Provide consistent 1:1 classroom support for a child with autism and Down syndrome, adapting learning activities to their individual developmental needs, abilities and communication preferences.
• Use visual timetables, picture prompts, simplified instructions and practical resources to improve understanding, encourage participation and support daily classroom routines.
• Develop early literacy and numeracy skills through repetition, multisensory learning activities and carefully structured tasks matched to the pupil's individual learning targets.
• Encourage communication and social interaction by reinforcing agreed speech and language strategies, supporting expressive communication and facilitating positive engagement with classmates.
• Assist with transitions between lessons, sensory regulation and emotional wellbeing, using familiar routines and personalised strategies to maintain a comfortable and accessible learning environment.
• Work closely with the class teacher, SENCO and relevant specialists to implement the pupil's individual support plan, monitor developmental progress and encourage increasing independence.

The School

This primary school in Wolverhampton is seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to provide consistent, individualised support for a child with autism and Down syndrome. The position offers an opportunity to understand how different developmental needs can influence communication, academic achievement, social interaction and participation in mainstream education. You will work alongside classroom staff to deliver personalised learning activities, reinforce specialist recommendations and help the pupil access a broad and engaging primary curriculum. The role will provide valuable experience of individual support planning, inclusive teaching methods and the importance of building a positive, trusting relationship with a child who requires additional assistance throughout the school day.

The Requirements

• Degree – A 2:2 or above in Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Educational Psychology or a closely related discipline with substantial child development or psychological content.
• GCSE Qualifications – GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above, with the ability to support primary-level literacy, numeracy and communication development.
• Enhanced DBS – An Enhanced DBS certificate with the appropriate children's barred list check is required. Applicants must hold one or be willing to obtain one before starting.
• SEN Knowledge – An understanding of autism and Down syndrome, including individual differences in communication, cognitive development, sensory processing and learning.
• Personal Qualities – A patient, attentive and adaptable approach, with the emotional maturity to provide consistent support while encouraging the child's confidence and independence.
• Relevant Experience – Previous experience supporting children with additional needs through schools, specialist placements, volunteering or care settings is desirable, alongside a genuine interest in inclusive education.

Due to the number of applications, only successful applicants will be contacted.