SEN Teaching Assistant

SEN Teaching Assistant (SEMH Specialist Setting)

Croydon, South London Full-time | Term-time only Competitive daily rate (dependent on experience)

About the Role

We are currently recruiting for a dedicated and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist independent provision supporting students aged 11–18 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and additional learning differences.

This is a rewarding opportunity to work within a nurturing, therapeutic, and highly personalised learning environment, where the focus is on building trust, supporting emotional development, and re-engaging students in education.

The school offers small class sizes, individualised learning plans, and a strong pastoral approach, allowing staff to make a genuine impact on each student’s progress and wellbeing. [thewriteti...ool.org.uk], [thewriteti...ool.org.uk]

Key Responsibilities

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• Support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups within the classroom
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• Assist in managing challenging behaviour using calm, consistent, and restorative approaches
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• Build positive, trusting relationships with students who may have experienced barriers to education
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• Support students’ emotional regulation, social skills, and confidence
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• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCO, and therapeutic staff
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• Help deliver tailored learning activities in line with individual education plans
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• Promote a safe and inclusive learning environment at all times
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The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

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• Experience working with SEN, SEMH, or vulnerable young people (education, youth work, care, or similar)
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• A calm, patient, and resilient approach to behaviour support
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• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
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• A genuine interest in supporting students with additional needs
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• An understanding that behaviour is a form of communication
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• A proactive and adaptable attitude
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Desirable:

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• Relevant degree (e.g. Psychology, Criminology, Education)
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• Training in Mental Health, Safeguarding, or Behaviour Support
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• Experience in alternative provision, PRUs, or specialist settings
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About the Setting

This is a specialist provision for young people who may have struggled in mainstream education. The school takes a student-centred, therapeutic approach, helping learners develop academically, socially, and emotionally.

Students are supported through bespoke learning programmes, mentoring, and targeted interventions, with a strong emphasis on confidence-building, independence, and future pathways. [thewriteti...ool.org.uk], [thewriteti...ool.org.uk]

A consistent, structured environment and strong staff-student relationships are key to helping students re-engage and succeed. [matttallyem.co.uk]

Why Apply?

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• Opportunity to make a real, lasting difference in young people’s lives
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• Supportive and collaborative team environment
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• Excellent experience for those pursuing careers in education, psychology, or youth work
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• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
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How to Apply

To apply or find out more, please contact Reed Education today.