SEN Support Worker / Teaching Assistant

TeacherActive is working with a fantastic specialist school supporting children and young people aged 2–19 with severe learning difficulties and additional needs.

No previous school experience or teaching qualifications are required.

We are looking for friendly, reliable and enthusiastic people who are willing to learn and passionate about supporting children and young people.

This could be a great opportunity if you have experience in care, childcare, healthcare, sports coaching, youth work, hospitality, customer service or volunteering — or if you are simply looking to start a completely new career within SEND and education.

What will you be doing?

Supporting pupils throughout the school day
Helping children engage in lessons and activities
Providing 1:1 and small-group support
Encouraging communication, independence and confidence
Supporting pupils with a range of additional and complex needs
Working alongside teachers and experienced support staff
Helping create a safe, positive and enjoyable environment
Taking part in activities including swimming with pupils at least once a week

Important requirement

Candidates must be able to swim, as swimming is a regular part of the role and you will be required to support pupils during swimming sessions.

Interview process

The interview process is designed to give you the opportunity to experience the school and the role before starting.

Successful applicants will be invited to attend a free trial session at the school from 10:00am – 1:00pm.

During the trial, you will:

Spend time working in a couple of different classes
Meet pupils and members of the school team
Get a feel for the day-to-day responsibilities of the role
Have the opportunity to see whether the environment is right for you
You do not need to prepare anything in advance — the school is looking for your attitude, reliability, confidence and willingness to support the pupils.

Working hours

Monday to Friday
8:45am – 3:45pm
34 hours per week
Term time only

The role also includes one after-school club per week from 3:30pm – 5:15pm.

Who are we looking for?

You do not need previous SEND or school experience.

We are looking for people who are:

Caring, patient and understanding
Reliable and committed
Positive and enthusiastic
Comfortable supporting children and young people
Happy working as part of a team
Willing to learn
Able and willing to swim with pupils
Passionate about helping others
Full support and guidance will be provided, making this an excellent opportunity for anyone wanting to gain experience, change careers or start working within education and SEND.

If you are looking for a rewarding role where every day is different, apply today!

About TeacherActive

TeacherActive is one of the UK’s leading education recruitment agencies, with over 20 years of experience supporting schools and education professionals. We place teachers and support staff into a wide range of temporary, contract and permanent roles, helping candidates find rewarding opportunities that suit their experience, availability and career goals. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent service to both our schools and candidates.

Equal Opportunities Statement

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business and Employment Agency in providing temporary, contract and permanent job seeking services.

Safeguarding and DBS Compliance

TeacherActive is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Safeguarding is central to our recruitment practices, and we expect all applicants to share this commitment. All applicants are subject to thorough vetting and safer recruitment checks before being cleared to work
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed