Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant Croydon

Create Education; London Borough of Croydon; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Create Education is seeking resilient SEN Teaching Assistants to support pupils with Autism, ADHD, SEMH and other needs in Croydon schools. You will provide 1:1 and small-group support, help with emotional regulation and social development, and work closely with teachers and SENCOs to create a nurturing learning environment.

Previous SEN experience is preferred; a valid Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain one) is required.

Qualifications

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEN.
• Resilience and emotional maturity—remain calm and professional.
• Enhanced DBS (Update Service) or willingness to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Providing tailored 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with additional learning needs.
• Supporting children with Autism, ADHD, SEMH and other needs.
• Managing challenging behaviour calmly and confidently, using positive strategies.
• Supporting emotional regulation, communication and social development.
• Working with teachers, SENCOs and specialist staff.
• Encouraging independence, confidence and engagement with learning.
• Assisting with personal care and physical needs where required.
• Creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

Skills

Resilience

Emotional maturity

Behaviour management

Patience

Empathy

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Level 2 Teaching Assistant

Level 3 Teaching Assistant

Job description

Are you resilient, compassionate and confident supporting children with additional needs? Do you have the patience to handle challenging situations and the determination to make a real difference? Create Education is looking for dedicated, enthusiastic and resilient SEN Teaching Assistants to work within welcoming and supportive schools across Croydon. We're looking for individuals who can build positive relationships with young people, celebrate the small victories and remain calm, consistent and encouraging even on the more challenging days. You'll be supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, including Autism (ASD), ADHD, Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, and learning difficulties. This isn't always an easy role, but for the right person, it can be one of the most rewarding!

The Role - SEN Teaching Assistant

• Providing tailored 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with additional learning needs.
• Supporting children with Autism, ADHD, SEMH and other additional needs.
• Managing challenging behaviour calmly and confidently, using positive behaviour strategies.
• Supporting pupils with emotional regulation, communication and social development.
• Working alongside teachers, SENCOs and specialist support staff.
• Encouraging independence, confidence and positive engagement with learning.
• Assisting with personal care and physical needs where required, depending on the placement.
• Creating a safe, nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEN is essential, whether in schools, care or other relevant settings.
• Resilience and emotional maturity – someone who can remain calm and professional when situations become challenging.
• Confidence managing challenging behaviour and responding to pupils' individual needs.
• Patience, empathy and a genuine understanding that progress looks different for every child.
• A positive, proactive attitude and the ability to think on your feet.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust with young people.
• Consistency, reliability and a willingness to work as part of a team.
• A Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (preferred but not required).
• An Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain one.

Why Work with Create Education?

• Opportunities across primary, secondary and specialist SEN settings in Croydon and SW London.
• The chance to make a genuine difference to children who need additional support.
• Opportunities to develop your skills and gain valuable SEN experience.
• Support and guidance from your dedicated Create Education consultant.
• Rewarding work where every day brings new challenges and achievements.

Whether you've worked in a school, supported individuals with additional needs in a care setting or have hands‑on SEN experience, we'd love to have a chat.

We are committed to safeguarding children. Each applicant will be expected to undertake compliance checks including Prohibited list, Barred list, DBS and Qualifications