Sen Teaching Assistant

Supply Desk; Folkestone; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent pay rates

Regular training

Career progression in SEN

Job summary

Supply Desk is seeking a dedicated SEMH Learning Support Assistant to support primary and infant pupils with a range of needs in the New Forest area, near Hythe. Graduates are welcome and training will be provided to help learners access learning and develop communication, confidence and independence.

The role focuses on one-to-one and small-group support, working with pupils with ASD, ADHD and SEMH needs, with guidance from teachers and SEN staff.

Qualifications

• Passion for supporting children with ASD and additional needs.
• Calm, patient and compassionate approach.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and undertake training.
• Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one.
• Previous experience in SEMH is desirable but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Providing one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with SEMH needs.
• Supporting pupils’ individual learning, communication, sensory and emotional needs.
• Helping pupils follow structured routines and manage transitions throughout the school day.
• Using visual resources, communication aids and autism-friendly strategies.
• Encouraging positive behaviour, social interaction and independence.
• Working closely with teachers, SENCOs and other support professionals.
• Creating a safe, calm and inclusive learning environment.
• Monitoring pupils’ progress and providing feedback to the class teacher.

Skills

Patience

Communication

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Calm demeanor

Job description

SEMH Learning Support Assistant for primary and infant schools – Graduates Welcome

New Forest

Full Time Work Available

September 2026 Start

Are you passionate about supporting children with a range of Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs? Perhaps you are a graduate looking to begin a career in education, psychology, SEN or teaching, or you already have experience supporting individuals with additional needs.

Supply Desk are looking for a caring, patient and enthusiastic SEMH Learning Support Assistant to join a supportive school additional need school in the Hythe area of the New Forest. You will work closely with pupils who have autism, ADHD, SEMH and other needs helping them access learning, develop their communication skills and become more confident and independent within the school environment.

Previous school experience is desirable but not essential, as training and ongoing support will be provided.

The Role

• Providing one-to-one and small-group support for pupils with SEMH needs
• Supporting pupils’ individual learning, communication, sensory and emotional needs
• Helping pupils follow structured routines and manage transitions throughout the school day
• Using visual resources, communication aids and autism-friendly strategies
• Encouraging positive behaviour, social interaction and independence
• Working closely with teachers, SENCOs and other support professionals
• Creating a safe, calm and inclusive learning environment
• Monitoring pupils’ progress and providing feedback to the class teacher

Minimum Requirements:

• A genuine passion for supporting children and young people with ASD and additional needs
• A calm, patient and compassionate approach
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• A willingness to learn and undertake relevant training
• Previous experience supporting individuals with SEMH is desirable but not essential
• An enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain a new one

What we offer

• Excellent rates of pay
• A wide variety of schools and specialist settings to work in
• A highly experienced, professional and friendly team supporting you
• Regular training delivered by experienced industry professionals
• Opportunities to develop your SEN knowledge and progress within education

Please visit our website supplydesk.co.uk.

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to hold an enhanced DBS (formerly CRB) check which must be maintained throughout the period of employment and meet Safer Recruitment standards.

Supply Desk is an equal opportunities employer and actively encourages applications from all sectors of the community.