Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant - Complex Needs
Southwark, South East London
Full-time, term-time only, 8:30am - 4pm
£95 - £105 PAYE per day, weekly payment
You studied human behaviour. You read about trauma, attachment, cognitive development, and the reasons people act the way they do. But have you ever sat across from a young person who cannot tell you what they need, and had to work it out anyway? Have you wondered what it would actually feel like to use that knowledge in a room where it matters every single day? If you are a psychology graduate looking for a role that will test you properly, this might be it.
This is a specialist state special school in South East London supporting young people aged 11 to 19. Every pupil here holds an Education, Health and Care Plan. The needs in this school are complex. Pupils present with severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties, Autism, and multi-sensory impairment. Many are non-verbal or pre-verbal. Communication happens through Makaton, objects of reference, sensory cues, and a range of AAC approaches. There is no stripped-down version of this work. It asks a great deal of you.
It also gives a great deal back.
The teaching team here works closely and is genuinely experienced. Therapists work directly alongside Teaching staff throughout the school day, which means you will learn from qualified professionals in real time, not in a training room. Leadership invests in staff development and takes consistency seriously. You will be supported from the day you start.
As a Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant in this role, you will:
- Work 1:1 and in small groups with young people with SLD, PMLD, ASC, and complex communication needs.
- Support pupils with personal care and physical needs as part of your daily role.
- Use AAC approaches and alternative communication methods under the guidance of the wider team.
- Work alongside Teachers, Therapists, and support staff to deliver personalised learning plans.
- Contribute to a calm, structured, and highly relational school environment.
This role is full-time, term-time only, based in Southwark, South East London. It is offered on a long-term basis with a route to permanent employment for the right person.
If you are a psychology graduate with a genuine interest in complex SEND, or someone with lived or professional experience of supporting non-verbal young people, get in touch. Prior school experience is not essential. The right attitude and a willingness to learn matter more here.
Parker Smith Inclusion is a specialist SEND recruitment agency. We put people first, taking the time to get to know you and finding the right career opportunity. We recruit across a wide range of SEND settings for all career stages, including support staff, teachers, therapists, and senior leaders. If you are keen to explore other opportunities, get in touch at heeji@psinclusion.co.uk or call Heeji on 0203 011 4848.