Learning Support Assistant

GSL Education - Kent; Tonbridge and Malling; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist education provider in Tonbridge is seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to support students with special educational needs and disabilities. The role involves providing tailored support in a collaborative school environment, ensuring students achieve academically, socially, and emotionally. Ideal candidates should have experience with SEND children, a caring attitude, and strong communication skills. This is a full-time position starting in January 2026, offering a daily salary of £88.94 plus, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Experience with children or young people with SEND, either in a school or care setting.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work in a team.
• Willingness to obtain an Enhanced Child Workforce DBS if not registered.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small group support under guidance.
• Assist with EHCPs and individual learning plans.
• Support students with various needs.
• Encourage independence and life skills.
• Promote a positive and safe learning environment.

Skills

Experience working with SEND children

Strong communication skills

Teamwork skills

Calm and resilient attitude

Passion for supporting children with additional needs

Education

Enhanced Child Workforce DBS

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Tonbridge
Contract Type: Full-time
Start: January 2026
Salary: £88.94+ per day (depending on experience)

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)? We are currently recruiting a committed and nurturing SEN Teaching Assistant to join a vibrant and supportive specialist school in Tonbridge.

As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in helping pupils achieve their potential - academically, socially, and emotionally. You'll work closely with the teaching team to deliver tailored support to students aged 3 to 19 with a range of complex needs, including severe and profound learning difficulties, autism spectrum conditions, and associated medical needs.

This is a wonderful opportunity to work in a highly collaborative environment where every child is celebrated for who they are. The school has a deep commitment to promoting independence, communication, and positive well-being in all pupils, creating a safe, nurturing space where children can thrive both personally and academically. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, responsive, and holistic - prioritising each student's voice and individual pathway.

Key responsibilities of the SEN Teaching Assistant include:

• Providing 1:1 or small group support under the guidance of teaching staff
• Assisting with the implementation of EHCPs and individual learning plans
• Supporting students with communication, behaviour, personal care, and sensory needs
• Encouraging the development of independence and life skills
• Promoting a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment

The ideal SEN Teaching Assistant will have:

• Experience working with children or young people with SEND (in a school or care setting)
• A calm, resilient, and caring attitude
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
• An Enhanced Child Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

Please be advised that this SEN Teaching Assistant role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service or completing an application for a new check.

To apply for the SEN Teaching Assistant role or express your interest, click 'apply now' and send your updated CV. A consultant will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

For more details or to register for ongoing opportunities, contact Kate at the GSL Education Kent office today.