Psychology Graduate - Teaching Assistant

Aspire People; Melbourn; On-site; GBP 22,996 - 25,068; Full time

Job summary

Aspire People is recruiting a Psychology Graduate to join a specialist SEN day school in Hertfordshire as a SEN Teaching Assistant.

You will support students with a range of needs, work with teachers and therapists, and help develop communication, independence, and social skills in a warm, collaborative environment.

This entry‑level role offers funded training, valuable experience for aspiring Clinical or Educational Psychologists, and a clear route to permanent opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 2 Maths and English (or equivalent).
• Psychology graduate or related field preferred.
• Willingness to work with SEN students and support learning.

Responsibilities

• Support students inside and outside the classroom
• Work with teachers and therapists to deliver personalised learning
• Encourage communication, confidence, and social development
• Support students during community-based and outdoor activities
• Help students develop life skills and independence
• Promote a safe, inclusive learning environment
• Provide personal care and physical support where required
• Support students with complex needs, including autism and medical conditions
• Build positive relationships with students and their families

Skills

Passionate about supporting children &

Interest in psychology / education

Compassionate

Patient

Resilient

Proactive

Creative

Team player

Strong communication

Safeguarding awareness

Education

Level 2 Maths

Level 2 English

Job description

Psychology Graduate – SEN Teaching Assistant

Salary: 22,996 – 25,068 per annum (actual salary, dependent on experience and qualifications)

Location: Royston / Meldreth, Hertfordshire

Hours: Full‑time, Term Time Only (40 hours per week, Monday‑Friday, 8:30 am‑4:30 pm)

Contract: Temporary‑to‑Permanent

Launch Your Career in Psychology, SEN & Mental Health

Are you a Psychology graduate looking to gain meaningful, hands‑on experience working with children and young people with additional needs before pursuing a career in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Mental Health, Therapy, Teaching, Social Work, or related fields?

About the School

We are a leading independent specialist day school supporting students aged 6‑19 with a wide range of learning needs, including:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
• ADHD
• Moderate and Severe Learning Difficulties (MLD & SLD)
• Complex communication needs
• Sensory processing difficulties
• Physical and medical needs
• Social, emotional and mental health challenges

Many of our students require support with anxiety, confidence, emotional regulation, sensory overload, and transitions. Every day presents opportunities to help young people develop the skills, resilience, and independence they need to thrive in adulthood.

Our school offers outstanding facilities, a strong therapeutic approach, and a collaborative environment where staff are genuinely valued and supported.

The Role

As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in helping students access learning, develop independence, and achieve their personal and educational goals.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting students both inside and outside the classroom
• Working alongside teachers and therapists to deliver personalised learning
• Encouraging communication, confidence, and social development
• Supporting students during community‑based and outdoor learning activities
• Helping students develop life skills and independence
• Promoting a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment
• Providing personal care and physical support where required
• Supporting students with complex needs, including autism and medical conditions
• Building positive, trusting relationships with students and their families

What We're Looking For

We're particularly interested in Psychology graduates who are:

• Passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs
• Interested in careers within psychology, education, mental health, therapy, or social care
• Compassionate, patient, and resilient
• Able to see potential rather than barriers
• Proactive, creative, and solution‑focused
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Strong communicators who can adapt to different communication styles and needs
• Committed to safeguarding and promoting student wellbeing

Minimum requirement: Level 2 Maths and English (or equivalent).

What We Offer

• Fully funded training and professional qualifications
• Excellent experience for aspiring Clinical, Educational or Child Psychologists
• Opportunities for career progression and permanent employment
• Support from experienced therapists and specialist educators
• A rewarding role where no two days are the same
• The chance to make a lasting impact on young people's lives
• A supportive and collaborative team environment

If you're looking for a rewarding graduate role where you can develop valuable skills, gain specialist SEN experience, and make a real difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.

Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment.