SEN Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant - SEMH & SEND
Location: North Essex | Salary: Up to £22478 | Full-Time, Permanent

Reed Education are delighted to be supporting a fantastic SEN school in North Essex with their search for a passionate and resilient Teaching Assistant to join their dedicated team.

The school is an independent secondary school for pupils in Years 7-11, providing a nurturing and therapeutic learning environment for children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, often alongside additional SEND such as Autism, ADHD, and communication difficulties.

With small class sizes and a high staff-to-student ratio, the school places strong emphasis on building meaningful relationships and delivering a trauma-informed, attachment-aware approach to education. Every member of staff plays a vital role in creating a safe, supportive space where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.

As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll be a key part of a multidisciplinary team, supporting students with complex and sometimes challenging behaviours. No two days are the same, and the role requires flexibility, empathy, and a proactive mindset.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to students
• Assist with classroom activities and resource preparation
• Support students during off-site educational visits
• Help students develop social and emotional skills through structured play and interaction
• Maintain a safe and positive environment during periods of heightened behaviour
• Contribute to creative displays and a stimulating learning environment
• Participate in therapeutic training and reflective practice sessions

• Experience working with children or young people with SEMH and/or SEND
• A TA qualification
• Strong communication and behaviour management skills
• A calm, consistent, and non-judgemental approach
• Resilience, adaptability, and a team-player attitude
• A good basic understanding of English and Maths

• Extensive therapeutic training and professional development
• Opportunities to shape the curriculum and extracurricular activities
• Small class sizes and strong team support
• Regular supervision and wellbeing support
• Competitive salary and flexible pension options
• Access to employee benefits and wellbeing services

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people who need it most. If you’re ready to bring your energy, creativity, and compassion to a school that values every voice, we’d love to hear from you. Please register your interest by pressing 'apply now'.