Aspiring Art Therapists - SEN Teaching Assistant

Milk Education; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist education agency is seeking an SEN Teaching Assistant in Tottenham to support pupils with complex needs, including ASD. This role is ideal for anyone aspiring to work in Art Therapy, offering hands-on experience in emotional support, communication, and sensory regulation. You will work alongside teachers and therapists to deliver structured, therapeutic learning. Benefits include excellent daily pay, flexible working, and access to CPD courses. Opportunities to progress into a long-term role are available.

Benefits

Excellent daily pay

Flexible working

Access to CPD courses

24/7 consultant support

Discount perks portal

Wellbeing hub

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience supporting pupils with complex SEND needs.
• Experience with creative, sensory, and therapeutic approaches.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed and low-arousal practice.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils 1:1 and in small groups with complex needs.
• Assist with personal care and mobility support when required.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to follow structured programmes.

Skills

Supporting emotional regulation

Encouraging self-expression and communication

Using visual systems like PECS and Makaton

Collaborating with teachers and therapists

Maintaining safeguarding standards

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant - Ideal for Aspiring Art Therapists

Milk Education | Tottenham | On-site

Milk Education is working in partnership with a specialist SEND provision in Tottenham supporting pupils with complex needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), communication differences, sensory processing challenges, and physical or medical requirements.

The school offers a structured, therapeutic environment where pupils receive highly personalised support from teachers, therapists, and specialist staff—making this an excellent setting for anyone planning a future career in Art Therapy or other creative therapeutic professions.

About the Role

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a hands‑on role supporting pupils' emotional regulation, communication, sensory needs, and self‑expression. You'll work closely with teachers, therapists, and support staff to help pupils engage in learning through structured routines, creative approaches, and therapeutic strategies.

This role provides valuable exposure to the types of emotional, behavioural, and sensory needs commonly supported within art therapy practice.

The position begins on a day‑to‑day, term‑time basis, with the opportunity to progress into a long‑term or permanent role.

Why This Role Is Ideal for Aspiring Art Therapists

• Gain first‑hand experience supporting emotional expression and regulation
• Observe how creative, sensory, and therapeutic approaches support learning and wellbeing
• Develop understanding of trauma‑informed and low‑arousal practice
• Build skills supporting pupils with communication barriers and emotional needs
• Learn how structured routines and environments support psychological safety
• Strengthen applications for Art Therapy Master's programmes with relevant, hands‑on experience
• Work alongside a multidisciplinary team, gaining insight into therapeutic practice within education

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting pupils 1:1 and in small groups across a range of complex SEND needs
• Supporting emotional regulation using creative, sensory, and structured approaches
• Assisting with activities that encourage self‑expression, communication, and engagement
• Using visual systems such as PECS, Makaton, visual schedules, and task breakdowns
• Supporting sensory needs through movement breaks, sensory tools, and calm environments
• Assisting with personal care, mobility support, or medical routines when required
• Supporting transitions and emotional wellbeing using positive behaviour strategies
• Working collaboratively with teachers and therapists to follow structured programmes
• Maintaining high standards of safeguarding, professionalism, and pupil care

Benefits (via Milk Education)

• Excellent daily pay
• Fast‑track registration and compliance
• Flexible working to suit your availability
• 5‑star rated education agency (3,000+ reviews)
• Exclusive partnerships with SEND schools across London
• Free Perks Portal with discounts similar to Blue Light benefits
• Access to 1,000+ CPD courses via Milk Academy
• Free PSHE lesson plans, creative resources, and behaviour toolkits
• Educator Wellbeing eBook + wellbeing hub
• School Preparation Pack for new placements
• 24/7 support from your dedicated consultant
• Access to Unbottled lived‑experience safeguarding speakers
• Part of the UK's only eco‑friendly education supply agency