SEN Teaching Assistant

Operam Education; Croydon; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

Operam Education is seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to join a welcoming primary school in Croydon. You will support pupils with a range of special educational needs, helping them access learning and build confidence in a nurturing environment.

Working with teachers and the SEND team, you will provide targeted support in class and in small groups, promoting inclusive practices. DBS enhanced clearance and QTS or equivalent are required for placement.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children or young people with Special Educational Needs (school-based experience desirable)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and independently

Responsibilities

• Provide one-to-one and small group support for pupils with SEN.
• Assist the class teacher in delivering engaging and inclusive lessons.
• Adapt learning activities to meet individual pupil needs.
• Support pupils’ social, emotional, and behavioural development.
• Encourage independence with appropriate guidance.
• Build positive relationships with pupils, staff, parents, and external professionals.
• Monitor progress and contribute to observations and record keeping.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment.
• Support pupils during breaktimes, visits, and other activities as required.

Skills

Experience with SEN

Excellent communication

Teamwork & independence

Education

Enhanced DBS check

QTS or equivalent

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant – Croydon

Start date – 3rd September 2026

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join a welcoming and inclusive primary school in Croydon. This is a rewarding opportunity to support pupils with a range of special educational needs, helping them to access learning, develop confidence, and achieve their full potential.

Working closely with teachers and the wider SEND team, you will provide tailored support both in the classroom and through small group or one-to-one interventions. The successful candidate will play a key role in creating a positive, nurturing learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.

Main Duties

• Provide one-to-one and small group support for pupils with Special Educational Needs.
• Assist the class teacher in delivering engaging and inclusive lessons.
• Adapt learning activities to meet the individual needs of pupils.
• Support pupils with their social, emotional, and behavioural development.
• Encourage independence while providing appropriate levels of guidance and reassurance.
• Build positive relationships with pupils, staff, parents, and external professionals.
• Monitor pupil progress and contribute to observations and record keeping.
• Help maintain a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment.
• Support pupils during breaktimes, educational visits, and other school activities where required.

About You

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working with children or young people with Special Educational Needs (school-based experience is desirable but not essential).
• A caring, resilient, and adaptable approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team as well as independently.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn.
• A genuine commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

We're proud to be an inclusive employer, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and committed to creating accessible opportunities across education.

As part of our registration process, you'll need an enhanced DBS check and we'll need to see and copy your original qualifications before any placement. Teaching roles require Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.