Special Needs Teaching Assistant – Barnet, North London
£90–£105 per day (PAYE, depending on experience)
Monday to Friday | 8:30am – 4:00pm
Full-time, long-term (term-time only)
Start: Easter or September
If you’ve supported children with Autism, SLD, PMLD, complex needs, or those affected by trauma, you’ll understand that progress isn’t always measured in big steps, sometimes the smallest moments are the most meaningful. Those moments come from feeling safe, supported, and understood by calm, consistent adults.
From the moment you enter this setting, it’s clear that staff are deeply committed to the young people they support. There’s a strong sense of purpose, care, and respect for neurodiversity throughout the school.
The School
This is a specialist SEND provision in Barnet supporting children and young people (primary through secondary) with ASC, SLD, PMLD, and a range of complex needs.
- Small class sizes with a sensory and holistic approach to learning
- High staff-to-student ratios to ensure consistency and strong relationships
- A focus on emotional regulation as a foundation for learning
- A nurturing, trauma-informed environment
The Role
As a Special Needs Teaching Assistant, your role is centred around building trust and providing a steady, supportive presence. You’ll work closely with teachers and therapists to support both learning and emotional development.
This is not about control or strict behaviour systems. Instead, you will:
- Develop strong, trusting relationships with students
- Support pupils with a range of needs, adapting your approach to each individual
- Assist with personal care where required
- Help students regulate through co-regulation and emotional support
- Recognise when a student needs a break from learning
- Stay calm, patient, and reflective during challenging moments
You’ll also work alongside a multidisciplinary team, including Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Educational Psychologists, and creative therapy specialists — ensuring both students and staff are well supported.
Who This Role Would Suit
This opportunity is ideal for someone who:
- Has a genuine interest in Autism, ADHD, SLD, PMLD, complex needs, or trauma-informed practice
- May have personal or professional experience supporting individuals with additional needs
- Is emotionally aware, resilient, and reflective
- Understands that behaviour is a form of communication
- Is considering a future career in teaching, psychology, or therapy
This role isn’t suited to someone looking for a traditional TA position focused on behaviour rewards or sanctions. It’s for someone who values a relational, therapeutic approach to education.
If this sounds like the kind of environment you want to be part of, I’d love to speak with you. Even if this role isn’t quite right, I can support you in finding a setting that aligns with your values.
If you’re interested, apply today or contact Zack at Parker Smith Inclusion.