Teaching Assistant

Academics; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

SEN allowance and pension benefits

Confidential staff counselling service

Wellbeing app and platform access

Staff social and wellbeing events

Annual flu vaccinations

Job summary

Academics is seeking Inspirational Teaching Assistants (SEN) to support pupils aged 2–19 with severe, profound, or complex needs at a highly regarded special school in the Maidstone area. You will join a forward-thinking, professional team and help pupils reach their potential in a supportive environment.

Opportunities include pathways toward Senior TA and HLTA roles, with emphasis on safeguarding, inclusive practice, and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Team working and taking responsibility.
• Experience in a special needs or child-focused environment, or passion for SEN education.
• Commitment to inclusive principles and safeguarding.
• Willingness to engage in professional development and career progression.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with SEN within a class team and across other classes as required.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of learning experiences for pupils aged 2–19 with complex needs.

Skills

Team working

SEN/child-focused experience

Inclusive principles & safeguarding

Professional development & progression

Job description

Inspirational Teaching Assistants (SEN) - All Ages 2-19

A highly regarded special school is seeking enthusiastic and adaptable Teaching Assistants to support pupils with severe, profound, or complex needs, aged 2-19. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-looking, professional team and make a real difference to the lives of young people with special talents.

Due to an increase in pupil numbers, the school is looking for motivated individuals with drive, enthusiasm, and potential to join their friendly and supportive environment. This role is ideal for experienced TAs, those who have worked in a special needs or child-focused setting, or passionate individuals seeking their first opportunity in SEN education.

Role and Career Development

Teaching Assistants will primarily work within a class team but will be expected to support other classes as required. The school has a strong record of promoting TAs to Senior TA and HLTA positions. Individuals with a degree or working towards one may also access career pathways toward teaching qualifications.

Benefits

• SEN allowance and pension benefits
• Confidential staff counselling service
• Access to a wellbeing app and platform
• A wide range of staff social and wellbeing events
• Annual flu vaccinations

About the Ideal Candidate

Successful candidates will:

• Enjoy team working and taking responsibility
• Have experience in a special needs or child-focused environment, or be passionate about SEN education
• Demonstrate a commitment to inclusive principles and safeguarding
• Be willing to engage in professional development and career progression opportunities

Unique Opportunities

The school provides innovative and diverse learning experiences for its pupils, including:

• Hands-on hospitality training in a café
• Library facilities built within a real aircraft fuselage
• Dedicated counselling and soft-play spaces
• Coffee roastery training and retail experience
• School-run radio station and record label projects
• Annual music festival and production of songs and music videos

These projects give pupils opportunities to develop practical skills and take part in activities they may not otherwise experience.