Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant

KPI RECRUITING LTD; Leeds; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

KPI Recruiting Ltd is seeking a Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant for a Leeds-based position starting October 2026. The role focuses on supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs across classroom and small-group settings, helping them progress academically and socially.

Candidates should hold a minimum 2:1 degree, preferably in Occupational Therapy-related subjects or any degree showing strong interest in working with young people. Term-time, full-time, with pay up to £560 per week.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2:1 degree from a UK university in Occupational Therapy-related subjects.
• Any degree demonstrating a strong interest in supporting young people.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with SEN.
• Help students access learning and engage positively in lessons.
• Implement individual support strategies and learning plans.
• Support pupils with communication, emotional regulation, and social development.
• Assist teachers in creating an inclusive learning environment.
• Build positive relationships with students to promote confidence and independence.
• Support literacy, numeracy, and wider curriculum activities.
• Monitor pupil progress and contribute to student development.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Empathy

Resilience

SEN knowledge

Education career aim

Experience with children

SEN experience

Tutoring/mentoring

Autism/ADHD/SEMH

Education

2:1 degree in Occupational Therapy-related subjects

Any degree with interest in supporting young people

Tools

N/A

Job description

Leeds Specialist Schools & Inclusive Mainstream Schools

Full-Time | Term-Time Only | October 2026 Start | Earn up to £560 Per Week

Considering a Career in SEN, Educational Psychology, Therapy, or Teaching?

Are you a recent graduate looking to gain meaningful experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs before pursuing a career in education, psychology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or teaching?

This Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant role offers a fantastic opportunity to work closely with pupils who require additional support, helping them overcome barriers to learning and achieve their potential in a nurturing and supportive school environment.

The Role

As a Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs, including:

• Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

Working alongside experienced teachers, SENCOs, and support staff, you will provide tailored support both inside and outside the classroom, helping pupils develop academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with SEN
• Help students access learning and engage positively in lessons
• Implement individual support strategies and learning plans
• Support pupils with communication, emotional regulation, and social development
• Assist teachers in creating an inclusive learning environment
• Build positive relationships with students to promote confidence and independence
• Support literacy, numeracy, and wider curriculum activities
• Monitor pupil progress and contribute to student development

Candidate Requirements

A minimum 2:1 degree from a UK university in one of the following subjects:

• Occupational Therapy-related subjects
• Any degree demonstrating a strong interest in supporting young people

In addition, applicants should possess:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A patient, empathetic, and resilient personality
• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
• A desire to pursue a long-term career within education, SEN, psychology, or therapy
• Previous experience working with children or young people
• Experience supporting individuals with SEN, disabilities, or additional needs
• Tutoring, mentoring, coaching, care, youth work, or voluntary experience
• Knowledge of autism, ADHD, SEMH, or learning difficulties

Why Apply?

Gain Invaluable SEN Experience

Develop practical skills working directly with children who require additional support, preparing you for future careers in education, psychology, and child development.

Perfect for Aspiring Professionals

An ideal stepping stone for graduates considering careers in:

• Primary Teaching
• Secondary Teaching
• Speech and Language Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

Earn While You Learn

Receive competitive pay of up

£560 per week

working term-time only.

Learn from Experienced Professionals

Work alongside SEN specialists, teachers, and support staff, gaining valuable insight into effective SEND provision and inclusive education.

Make a Genuine Difference

Play a vital role in helping vulnerable young people build confidence, independence, and success both inside and outside the classroom.

Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant | Leeds | October 2026 Start | Up to £560 Per Week