SEN Teaching Assistant

Dunbar Education, a leading recruitment agency, is proud to be working closely with a reputable SEN school. We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join their team full-time. The successful candidate will be supporting pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs (SEN), including ADHD, ASD, SEMH, and behavioural challenges. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people, providing them with the support they need to achieve their full potential. Key Responsibilities: Individual and Group Support: Work closely with pupils on a one-to-one basis or in small groups, offering personalised support to help them overcome challenges and succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Assisting Classroom Activities: Collaborate with the class teacher to plan and deliver tailored learning activities that engage and support pupils with SEN, ensuring lessons are accessible to all students. Behaviour Management: Implement positive behaviour strategies, providing guidance and intervention for pupils with behavioural challenges, using a calm and patient approach to de-escalate difficult situations. Promote Independence: Encourage pupils to develop independence and life skills, promoting self-confidence and resilience in and outside the classroom. Physical and Emotional Support: Provide care for pupils' physical needs (where applicable) and support their emotional well-being by creating a safe, nurturing environment. Monitoring and Reporting: Observe pupils' progress and behaviour, keeping detailed records to share with the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), class teacher, and parents/carers. Support with Personal Development Plans: Work with the SENCO and external specialists to implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs), tracking progress and adjusting support based on pupil needs. Assist with Extra-Curricular Activities: Support pupils during lunch breaks, school trips, or extracurricular activities, ensuring they are safe, engaged, and included. Collaboration and Communication: Liaise regularly with parents/carers, teachers, and other professionals (e.g., therapists) to ensure a holistic approach to each pupil's education and well-being. Essential Requirements: Experience: Minimum of 6 months UK-based experience in a similar role, preferably in a school or educational setting. Full-Time Commitment: Must be available to work full-time; no part-time positions available. DBS: Enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service (this is non-negotiable). SEN Experience: Previous experience supporting children with SEN, including ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs (SEMH), and managing challenging behaviours. Key Skills: Patience, resilience, and a proactive approach to supporting children with complex needs, as well as strong communication and teamwork skills. Understanding of Safeguarding: A strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and a commitment to ensuring pupil safety at all times. Desirable Qualifications and Skills: SEN-related qualifications, such as a Level 2/3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (or equivalent). Experience using Makaton, PECS, or other communication aids (desirable but not essential). Knowledge of de-escalation techniques or behaviour management training, such as Team Teach (desirable but not essential). What We Offer: Long-term, full-time opportunities with the potential for permanent positions. Ongoing support from a dedicated recruitment consultant. Opportunities for professional development and career progression, including training in SEN support strategies. A rewarding role in which you can make a real impact on children's lives.If you are passionate about working with children with SEN and meet the above requirements, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to make a positive impact in the lives of young learners! Dunbar Education is committed to the highest standards of safeguarding to ensure the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, to share this commitment. To adhere with safer recruitment procedures and guidelines, all registrations will be required to fill out our application form in, to receive work. This will be subject to pre-employment checks including an enhanced DBS disclosure and satisfactory references. Dunbar Education is an equal opportunities employer and recognises the value of and seeks to achieve a diverse workforce in schools. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Dunbar Education is a member of ASPCo compliance plus, for more information please refer to our recruitment & selection policy statement