Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)

Location: London Borough of Finchley / North Finchley (Barnet)
Contract Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only
Start Date: Immediate or next academic term
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience

Help Children Reach Their Full Potential – SEN TA in Finchley / North Finchley

Schools in Finchley and North Finchley are seeking patient, compassionate, and dedicated Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants (SEN TAs) to support pupils with a range of learning, social, and emotional needs.

SEN TAs are vital to ensuring children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. In this role, you will provide targeted one-to-one and small group support, helping pupils access lessons, build confidence, and develop independence.

About Schools in the Area

Finchley schools serve diverse communities and prioritise inclusion. SEN provision includes support for children with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

• Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN)

• Specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia

You may work in:

• Mainstream schools with SEN departments

• Resource bases attached to schools

• Specialist provisions focused on particular learning or communication needs

SEN TAs are considered essential members of the school team, helping pupils achieve their full potential.

Your Role as an SEN TA

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing 1:1 or small group support for pupils with SEN

• Supporting pupils with ASD, ADHD, SEMH, or other learning difficulties

• Adapting learning materials to meet individual needs

• Encouraging positive behaviour and self-regulation

• Supporting pupils in developing social and emotional skills

• Observing and recording pupil progress for teachers and SENCOs

• Assisting with transitions between lessons or activities

• Supporting therapy or intervention sessions

• Helping pupils with personal care when necessary

You will be a consistent, calm, and supportive presence, helping pupils navigate both academic challenges and social situations while fostering independence and confidence.

Who We’re Looking For

Finchley schools value personal qualities as much as experience. Successful candidates are:

• Patient, empathetic, and calm

• Observant and proactive

• Reliable and consistent

• Committed to inclusion and equality

• Able to build strong relationships with pupils and staff

Experience as an SEN TA is advantageous but not essential. Applicants often come from:

• Care work or youth work

• Early years or nursery experience

• Education, psychology, or child development studies

• Parenting or personal SEN experience

Full training and mentoring will be provided to support your development in the role.

Why Work in Finchley / North Finchley?

• Schools with well-resourced SEN departments

• Supportive and collaborative staff teams

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression

• Term-time hours for good work-life balance

• Diverse and inclusive school communities

Many SEN TAs progress to higher-level support roles, specialist SEN positions, or teaching careers.

Professional Development

Schools provide ongoing CPD including:

• Behaviour management and de-escalation techniques

• Autism and SEMH awareness

• Social and emotional learning interventions

• Speech, language, and communication support

• Career progression pathways within education

This ensures you develop your skills alongside the pupils you support.

Working Conditions

• Term-time only

• Typical school hours: 8:30am–3:30pm

• Long-term placements preferred

• Supportive environment with clear behaviour and safeguarding policies

While the role can be challenging, it is highly rewarding, with visible impact on pupils’ academic and emotional progress.

Safeguarding

All SEN TA roles require:

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Safeguarding training

• Adherence to school policies

Finchley schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Apply Today

If you are ready to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives, becoming a Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant in Finchley / North Finchley offers a rewarding opportunity to support pupils, contribute to an inclusive school environment, and build a fulfilling career in education.

Your patience, empathy, and dedication will help pupils thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.