SEN Teaching Assistant

Teaching AssistantLocation: HorshamSalary : £22,996 £24,568 per year (£12.87 £13.75 per hour)Hours: 40 hours per weekContract : Permanent Term time onlyStart date: September 2026A specialist SEND secondary school in the heart of Horsham is seeking a compassionate and committed Teaching Assistant to support autistic young people aged 1116. The school provides an adapted National Curriculum delivered in small classes, with a strong focus on sensory needs, emotional wellbeing and creating a safe, nurturing environment.Many students join from mainstream settings to access a more personalised and therapeutic approach to learning.The RoleThis is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about neurodiversity, therapy?informed practice and supporting young people to thrive. You will work closely with teachers, therapists and clinicians, helping to deliver a truly integrated model of support.You will: Build strong, trusting relationships with students and prioritise their wellbeingSupport learning in class and help personalise each young persons educational journeyDeliver therapeutic strategies and interventions designed by the clinical teamWork collaboratively with teachers, therapists and the SENCOProvide regular feedback to parents and professionalsSupport enrichment activities including outdoor learning, swimming, sports, visits and community projectsYou will be a key part of school life, contributing to a culture that celebrates neurodiversity and supports every student to succeed.About YouWe are looking for someone who demonstrates: A strong interest in therapy and neuro?affirmative practiceA qualification or genuine interest in psychologyExperience supporting young people, particularly those with SENDExperience supporting neurodivergent individualsResourcefulness, resilience and a growth mindsetA good level of general educationYou must also have: Strong written and verbal English and confident IT skillsEmpathy and resilience to support young people who may experience high anxiety, self?harm behaviours, ARFID, disordered eating or other mental health needsCommitment to becoming a neuro?informed, neuro?affirmative practitionerOutstanding pastoral and safeguarding practiceWhat is on offer: Small classes and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with studentsTime, support and training to prioritise safeguarding, pastoral care and wellbeingDaily collaboration with an onsite clinical team including a Clinical Psychologist, Occupational Therapist and Speech & Language TherapistOpportunities to contribute to research supporting the wider neurodivergent communityA rare chance to help shape a new school and create a culture that will transform the lives of young people and their familiesTPBN1_UKTJ