Experienced SEN Teaching Assistant

Aspire People; City Of London; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Aspiring primary school in Croydon is seeking an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant to join a brand-new SEN provision in a two-form entry school. You will support pupils with SEND, helping them access learning and develop independence in a nurturing environment.

Experience with autism, communication and sensory needs, and a collaborative approach with the SENCO and external professionals are essential. A passion for inclusive practice is required.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEND in a primary setting.
• Experience with a range of needs including autism, communication and interaction needs, social/emotional and sensory needs.
• Ability to support pupils individually and in small groups.
• Build positive relationships and foster a calm, nurturing environment.
• Support emotional regulation and positive behaviour.

Responsibilities

• Support children with SEND to access learning and participate in activities.
• Work closely with the SENCO and external professionals to implement support plans.
• Adapt activities and resources to meet individual needs.
• Build trusting relationships and promote independence and belonging.
• Reflect on practice and contribute to inclusive provision development.

Skills

SEND experience

Autism

Communication needs

Social/emotional needs

Sensory needs

Individual and small group support

Calm nurturing approach

Team collaboration with SEN staff

Adapt activities

Reflective and resilient

Job description

Join our exciting new SEN provision: We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and nurturing SEN Teaching Assistant to join our friendly and inclusive two-form entry primary school in Croydon.

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a new SEN provision, helping to shape an environment where children with additional needs can thrive, develop their independence and achieve their full potential.

We are seeking someone who is passionate about supporting children with SEND, has a strong understanding of inclusive practice, and is confident in adapting their approach to meet individual needs.

The successful candidate will:

• Have proven experience working with children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
• Have experience supporting children with a range of needs, ideally including autism, communication and interaction needs, social/emotional needs and sensory needs.
• Be confident supporting children both individually and in small groups.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with pupils and understand the importance of a calm, consistent and nurturing approach.
• Be able to support pupils with emotional regulation and positive behaviour.
• Work closely with teachers, the SENCO and external professionals to implement individual support plans and strategies.
• Be confident adapting activities and resources to enable pupils to access learning.
• Have high expectations for every child and genuinely believe that every pupil can succeed.
• Be reflective, resilient, proactive and willing to learn.
• Contribute positively to the development of our new provision and wider inclusive practice across the school.

We can offer you:

• The opportunity to play a key role in establishing and developing a brand-new SEN provision.
• A welcoming, supportive and inclusive school community.
• A collaborative team who are committed to improving outcomes for children with SEND.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• The chance to work alongside experienced teachers, the SENCO and wider professionals.
• A school that values the contribution of its support staff and invests in their development.
• A rewarding role where you can make a genuine and lasting difference to children's lives.

About you

You will be someone who is patient, compassionate and enthusiastic, with the confidence and experience to support children who may require a more personalised approach to learning. You will understand that successful SEN support is about much more than helping children complete their work. It is about developing communication, confidence, independence, emotional regulation and a sense of belonging.