Aspiring Educational Psychologist – Reception SEN Teaching Assistant

Pertemps Education Network; City Of London; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Pertemps Education Network has partnered with a welcoming primary school in Eltham to recruit a motivated Reception SEN Teaching Assistant. You will provide 1:1 and small-group support to Reception pupils with additional needs, helping them access the EYFS curriculum through structured activities and strong emotional development strategies.

Ideal candidates are psychology graduates aiming to become Educational Psychologists, with empathy, patience and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs.
• Patience, empathy and a nurturing approach.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• An interest in child development, autism and learning difficulties.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn from experienced professionals.

Responsibilities

• Providing dedicated 1:1 and small-group support to Reception-aged pupils with additional needs.
• Supporting children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, speech and language difficulties and developmental delays.
• Encouraging communication, social interaction and emotional development through structured and play-based activities.
• Supporting children with emotional regulation, confidence, independence and engagement.
• Helping pupils access the EYFS curriculum through differentiated learning activities.
• Developing positive relationships with children and understanding their individual needs.
• Supporting classroom routines, transitions and early learning activities.
• Working alongside the class teacher and SENCO to implement individual support strategies.
• Monitoring children's engagement and contributing to their developmental progress.

Skills

Patience

Empathy

Communication skills

Willingness to learn

Interest in child development

Education

Psychology degree

Job description

Location: Eltham, South East London

Salary: £108.35 per day

Contract: Full-time, Monday to Friday, term-time only

Start Date: ASAP

Are you a Psychology graduate aspiring to become an Educational Psychologist? Would you like to gain valuable hands‑on experience supporting young children with additional needs in a primary school environment?

Pertemps Education Network is working in partnership with a welcoming primary school in Eltham to recruit a motivated, compassionate and enthusiastic Reception SEN Teaching Assistant.

This is an excellent opportunity for Psychology graduates and aspiring Educational Psychologists to gain practical experience supporting young children with Autism, ADHD, communication difficulties and developmental delays.

You will work within a Reception classroom, supporting pupils during a crucial stage of their early development. Working alongside experienced teachers, SEN professionals and the school's wider support team, you will gain first‑hand insight into how additional needs can affect children's learning, communication, behaviour and social development.

The Role – What Will You Be Doing?

• Providing dedicated 1:1 and small-group support to Reception-aged pupils with additional needs.
• Supporting children with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, speech and language difficulties and developmental delays.
• Encouraging communication, social interaction and emotional development through structured and play‑based activities.
• Supporting children with emotional regulation, confidence, independence and engagement.
• Helping pupils access the EYFS curriculum through differentiated learning activities.
• Developing positive relationships with children and understanding their individual needs.
• Supporting classroom routines, transitions and early learning activities.
• Working alongside the class teacher and SENCO to implement individual support strategies.
• Monitoring children's engagement and contributing to their developmental progress.

Who Would This Opportunity Suit?

• Psychology graduates aspiring to become Educational Psychologists.
• Graduates interested in Child Psychology, Clinical Psychology or Developmental Psychology.
• Individuals considering careers in Speech and Language Therapy or SEN education.
• Graduates in Psychology, Sociology, Childhood Studies or related disciplines.
• Candidates with previous experience working with children through schools, nurseries, childcare or volunteering.

You will need to demonstrate:

• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs.
• Patience, empathy and a nurturing approach.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• An interest in child development, autism and learning difficulties.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn from experienced professionals.

Previous school‑based SEN experience is desirable but not essential. Psychology graduates with relevant academic knowledge and transferable experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Why Apply?

• Gain valuable practical experience relevant to a future career in Educational Psychology.
• Develop your understanding of Autism, ADHD and neurodevelopmental needs.
• Gain first‑hand experience of early intervention and child development.
• Work alongside experienced teachers, SENCOs and support professionals.
• Build your experience supporting children's emotional, social and educational development.
• Ongoing support from your dedicated Pertemps Education Network consultant.