SEN Teaching Assistant - Primary & Secondary (Autism, SEMH)

Aspire People; Greater London; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive daily pay

Professional development

Access to Aspire network

Job summary

Aspire People Limited is recruiting Teaching Assistants for primary and secondary settings in East London to support pupils with autism, SEMH and mainstream groups. Roles suit those with SEND experience or those entering specialist education.

The role offers training, ongoing professional development, and potential long-term/permanent opportunities within Aspire People’s network of schools, with DBS checks as part of safeguarding requirements.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEND is desirable but not essential.
• Training and support will be given.
• A genuine passion for supporting pupils with additional needs.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills; relevant qualifications or a degree are a plus.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusting relationships with pupils, families and staff.
• A patient, calm, flexible and resilient approach.
• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to apply for one).

Responsibilities

• Support teachers in delivering engaging, accessible lessons tailored to individual needs.
• Work 1:1 or with small groups to boost progress, communication, independence and confidence.
• Support pupils with autism or SEMH, depending on the setting.
• Use positive behaviour strategies to promote a calm, safe and structured learning environment.
• Help prepare resources, visual supports and adapted materials.
• Contribute to the wider school community, including enrichment activities and working with families and professionals.

Skills

Communication skills

Patience

Adaptability

Education

Degree preferred

Job description

SEN Teaching Assistant - Primary & Secondary (Autism, SEMH & Mainstream)

Location: East London (Walthamstow, Leyton & Chingford, Waltham Forest)

Company: Aspire People Limited

Aspire People is recruiting caring, resilient and proactive Teaching Assistants to work in well-regarded primary and secondary schools across East London. Whether you're experienced in SEND or looking to move into specialist education, we have roles to suit you.

Settings include:

• Specialist primary provision for pupils with autism
• Specialist secondary provision for pupils with autism
• Secondary provision for pupils with SEMH (social, emotional and mental health needs)
• Mainstream primary

Key Responsibilities:

• Support teachers in delivering engaging, accessible lessons tailored to individual needs.
• Work 1:1 or with small groups to boost progress, communication, independence and confidence.
• Support pupils with autism or SEMH, depending on the setting.
• Use positive behaviour strategies to promote a calm, safe and structured learning environment.
• Help prepare resources, visual supports and adapted materials.
• Contribute to the wider school community, including enrichment activities and working with families and professionals.

Requirements:

• Experience supporting children or young people with SEND is desirable but not essential. Training and support will be given.
• A genuine passion for supporting pupils with additional needs.
• Good literacy and numeracy skills; relevant qualifications or a degree are a plus.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusting relationships with pupils, families and staff.
• A patient, calm, flexible and resilient approach.
• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to apply for one).

Benefits:

• Competitive daily pay.
• Supportive, inclusive school environments with strong staff teams.
• Ongoing professional development, including autism awareness and positive behaviour support.
• A choice of primary and secondary settings, so you can find the right fit.
• Good transport links, including the Victoria line, Overground and Central line.
• Access to Aspire People's network of educational professionals.
• Potential for long‑term and permanent roles.

Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject, to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.