Graduate

Academics; Littlehampton; On-site; GBP 17,158 - 19,372; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site training

CPD provided

Term-time only schedule

Job summary

Academics in Littlehampton is seeking a recent Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate to become a SEN Teaching Assistant. You will support pupils 1:1 and in small groups, helping access learning and develop life skills in a specialist SEN setting.

The role offers on-site training, opportunities to observe therapy approaches, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. Start date September; 08:30–15:30, term-time only, £93–£105 per day.

Qualifications

• A degree in Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology.
• A strong interest in mental health, behaviour, and child development.
• A patient, resilient, and empathetic approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEN.
• Support emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement.
• Assist with personalised learning and behaviour strategies.
• Observe and report on pupil progress and wellbeing.
• Build positive and trusting relationships with pupils.
• Help maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment.

Skills

Degree in Psychology/Criminology/Soci"

Mental health interest

Empathetic approach

Strong communication

Education

Degree in Psychology/Criminology/Sociology

Job description

Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology Graduates - Start Your Career in SEN - Littlehampton - West Sussex

Are you a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate looking to gain hands‑on experience working with children and young people? This is a fantastic opportunity in Littlehampton for a recent or soon‑to‑be graduate to build an invaluable experience in a specialist SEN setting.

We are working with a supportive SEN school that caters for pupils with additional needs, including autism and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. This role in Littlehampton is ideal for a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate considering a future career in Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Mental Health, or Youth Justice.

The Role

As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, helping them to access learning, regulate emotions, and develop key life skills. This position in Littlehampton is particularly well suited to a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate who is keen to gain practical, real‑world experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEN
• Support emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement
• Assist with personalised learning and behaviour strategies
• Observe and report on pupil progress and wellbeing
• Build positive and trusting relationships with pupils
• Help maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment

What We're Looking For

• A degree in Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology
• A strong interest in mental health, behaviour, and child development
• A patient, resilient, and empathetic approach
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• A proactive and reflective mindset
• Experience with children or vulnerable individuals (desirable but not essential)
• Able to commute to Littlehampton

What You'll Gain

• First‑hand experience in a specialist SEN/SEMH setting
• Exposure to behaviour management and therapeutic approaches
• Experience working alongside a multidisciplinary team
• A strong foundation for careers in psychology or mental health
• Ongoing training and development opportunities

Additional Information

• Start date September, trial days taking place to ensure the role and school is right for you
• Fantastic on‑site training, support and CPD is provided to ensure safeguarding of all pupils
• Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 15:30, PAYE, term time only
• £93‑£105 per day
• You MUST have right to work in the UK in order to apply – no Visa sponsorship
• Candidates registering with Academics will need to have or apply for an Enhanced DBS and/or overseas police check where appropriate

Apply now or contact Maddy Thatcher at Academics if you are a recent or soon‑to‑be graduate interested in the Special Needs Teaching Assistant role: (phone number removed) (url removed)