Teaching Assistant

Philosophy Education; West Down; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Philosophy Education is seeking caring Teaching Assistants to support primary pupils with Special Educational Needs in mainstream settings. You will provide personalised, 1:1 support, help pupils access the curriculum, and foster independence and confidence throughout the school day.

These opportunities suit experienced SEN professionals, recent graduates, or individuals beginning a rewarding SEND career. Long-term and flexible supply roles with September 2026 starts and competitive pay across

Qualifications

• Experience supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
• Ability to support access to the curriculum in mainstream primary settings.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to individual pupil needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide dedicated 1:1 support throughout the school day.
• Help pupils access lessons, activities and the wider school environment.
• Support communication, emotional regulation and positive behaviour.
• Encourage independence, confidence and social development.
• Support pupils through transitions and changes in routine.
• Adapt activities and approaches to meet individual needs.
• Work closely with class teachers, SENCOs, therapists and families.
• Support pupils to engage positively with peers and the wider school community.
• Provide personal care support where required.

Skills

Patience

Compassion

Reliability

Adaptability

Job description

Teaching Assistant (SEN Support)

Mainstream Primary Schools Long-Term &; Flexible Supply September 2026 Starts Competitive Pay Local Opportunities

Are you passionate about supporting children with Special Educational Needs and helping them thrive in a mainstream primary school environment?

We are looking for caring, patient and dedicated Teaching Assistants to support primary-aged pupils with a range of additional needs. These opportunities are ideal for experienced SEN professionals, recent graduates, or individuals looking to begin a rewarding career in SEND.

The Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will provide personalised support to an individual pupil or classroom within a primary school, helping to access the curriculum, develop independence, build confidence and enjoy a positive experience of school.

Key Responsibilities

• Providing dedicated 1:1 support throughout the school day
• Helping pupils access lessons, activities and the wider school environment
• Supporting communication, emotional regulation and positive behaviour
• Encouraging independence, confidence and social development
• Supporting pupils through transitions and changes in routine
• Adapting activities and approaches to meet individual needs
• Working closely with class teachers, SENCOs, therapists and families
• Supporting pupils to engage positively with their peers and the wider school community
• Providing personal care support where required

The Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for someone who is patient, compassionate, reliable and adaptable, with a genuine passion for helping children thrive in a mainstream primary setting.

Previous experience in SEND, education, care, youth work, psychology or a similar environment is desirable, but experience is not essential for every role. Most importantly, you’ll have a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a commitment to making a meaningful difference to a child’s education and development.