SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Merton
Salary: £90 – £95 per day (dependent on experience) - PAYE
Contract Type: Full-time, Long-term
Job Description
We are currently seeking a committed and resilient SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist education setting in Merton, South West London. This role involves working with students with a range of special educational needs, particularly SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs), ASC (Autism Spectrum Condition), and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
This is an ideal opportunity for someone passionate about inclusive education and who thrives in a supportive but challenging environment where every day is different.
Key Responsibilities
- Support students in the classroom on a 1:1 basis or in small groups
- Implement strategies to manage behaviour and promote emotional regulation
- Assist the class teacher with planning and delivering engaging, accessible lessons
- Help create a positive and structured learning environment
- Provide emotional and pastoral support to pupils with complex needs
- Support the implementation of EHCP targets and behaviour plans
- Work closely with teaching staff, SENCOs and external professionals
Requirements
- Experience working with children or young people with SEND, especially SEMH, ASD, and ADHD
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond positively to challenging behaviour
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trusting relationships with pupils
- A patient, empathetic, and resilient attitude
- Good literacy, numeracy, and communication skills
- Understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
- Confidence in managing behaviour positively and consistently
- A proactive, flexible, and reflective approach to supporting learning
- Experience working in SEN schools, PRUs, alternative provisions
- An understanding of trauma-informed practice or therapeutic approaches
- Willingness to work collaboratively within a team and engage in professional development
What We Offer
- A welcoming and inclusive school environment
- Supportive leadership and experienced SEND teams
- Regular CPD opportunities and training
- Opportunities for progression into teaching or specialist support roles
- Consistent long-term placement with potential for permanent employment
To Apply:
Click Apply Now to submit your CV and reach out to Jamie Martinez at Paker Smith Inclusion. We welcome applications from experienced SEN TAs, recent psychology or education graduates, and those with relevant youth work or care experience.