Teaching Assistant

Rikama Education; Swanley; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist SEN school in Swanley is looking for resilient and compassionate Teaching Assistants to support pupils with SEMH needs. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact in a nurturing environment. Candidates should have strong communication skills, patience, and a commitment to inclusive education. The role includes supporting students in small class settings and providing tailored emotional and behavioural support. Competitive pay is offered along with opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive hourly rates

Access to ongoing professional development

Support from a dedicated consultant

Inclusive school culture

Qualifications

• Experience in SEN, SLD, or SEMH settings preferred.
• Knowledge of positive behaviour support strategies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils in small class settings.
• Deliver 1:1 and small-group interventions.
• Provide emotional and behavioural support.
• Help maintain an engaging learning environment.
• Support students in achieving personal goals.
• Encourage participation in school life.

Skills

Patience

Communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Proactivity

Education

GCSE Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths

NVQ Level 2 in Supporting Teaching and Learning

Job description

Teaching Assistant SEN School

Location: Swanley, Kent

Contract: Full-Time | Long-Term Supply or Permanent | Term Time Only

Start Date: January 2026 or ASAP

Salary: £13.69£15.69 per hour (£24,000 p.a. pro rata)

Make a Difference Every Day

Rikama Education is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a welcoming and forward-thinking specialist SEN school in Swanley, Kent. The school supports pupils aged 8-16 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and provides a nurturing, structured environment where young people can thrive.

Rated Good by Ofsted, with Outstanding judgements for Behaviour & Attitudes and Personal Development, this school offers a rewarding and supportive workplace where staff are encouraged to grow professionally while making a genuine impact on pupils' lives.

The Role

We are seeking resilient, compassionate, and enthusiastic Teaching Assistants to join a dedicated and experienced team. This is a long-term opportunity with the potential to become permanent for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils in small class settings (8-10 students)
• Deliver 1:1 and small-group interventions, including phonics support
• Provide emotional and behavioural support tailored to individual needs
• Help maintain a calm, structured, and engaging learning environment
• Support students in achieving academic, social, and personal goals
• Encourage participation in all aspects of school life

About You

We are looking for individuals who are:

• Patient, nurturing, and passionate about supporting pupils with SEMH, ASD, or ADHD
• Confident communicators who work well as part of a team
• Adaptable, proactive, and able to remain calm under pressure
• Committed to inclusive education and personalised learning approaches

Desirable Skills & Experience

• GCSE Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent) in English and Maths
• NVQ Level 2 in Supporting Teaching and Learning (or similar)
• Previous experience in an SEN, SLD, or SEMH setting
• Knowledge of positive behaviour support strategies

What's on Offer

• Competitive hourly rates of £13.69£15.69
• Long-term placement with the potential for a permanent position
• Weekly CPD and access to ongoing professional development
• Continuous support from a dedicated Rikama Education consultant
• A positive, inclusive school culture where staff are genuinely valued

Apply Now

To apply, please send your up-to-date CV to Tariq Kanani at: [e-mail]

Know someone suitable? Rikama Education offers a referral incentive for successful recommendations.