Work in SEND

Working with children and young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can be hugely rewarding.

Special Needs Teaching Assistants (SEN TA) support students in the classroom as directed by an SEN teacher in order to help pupils succeed with their learning. The work you do can vary greatly depending on where you are working and the individual needs of the pupils. Possible parts of the role include:

  • assisting with pupils’ physical needs, including hygiene and feeding, as well as assisting with therapy sessions;
  • helping with pupils’ school work under the supervision of an SEN teacher;
  • helping pupils increase their confidence, self-esteem and independence;
  • helping pupils who have difficulty communicating with others, including those whose first language is not English

What makes an SEN TA or Support Worker?

While experience (and in some case specialist training is required) we regularly look for candidates who possess some of the following characteristics:

  • Personal experience with SEND e.g. family member or friend

  • Previous experience as a care worker/support worker outside of the classroom

  • Experience with specific SEND tools/training e.g. Autism – Makaton, PECS; Team Teach, MAPA, Epilepsy training

  • Ability to work with PMLD e.g. hoists, personal care, manual handling, feeding (PEG feeding)

  • Desire and willingness to learn new skills

  • Caring and emphatic nature

To find out more about working in SEND or to register with us for SEND work email [email protected] or call 0208 066 0472.