Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant

Primary School – Islington, North London

We are seeking a professional, dedicated, and compassionate Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant to join our inclusive and supportive primary school in Islington, North London. This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated individual to make a meaningful impact on the education, development, and wellbeing of children with additional needs.

Our school is committed to fostering an inclusive environment in which every child is supported to achieve their full potential. We believe that high-quality, personalised education is essential for children with special educational needs and that teaching assistants play a pivotal role in enabling access to the curriculum and promoting social, emotional, and personal growth.

Role Overview

The SEN Teaching Assistant will work closely with class teachers, the SENCo, and the wider support team to provide tailored support for children with a variety of additional needs, including learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, speech and language challenges, social, emotional, or behavioural needs, and physical disabilities.

You will work with children on a one-to-one basis and in small groups, implementing individual learning plans and targeted interventions. Your role will involve supporting children to access the curriculum, develop social and emotional skills, and build confidence and independence.

The position requires a patient, empathetic, and flexible practitioner who can adapt to the individual needs of each child and work collaboratively with staff, parents, and external professionals.

Key Responsibilities

The SEN Teaching Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Supporting children with SEN in one-to-one and small group settings, implementing personalised learning activities

• Assisting with the preparation and adaptation of resources to meet individual learning needs

• Supporting children’s literacy, numeracy, communication, and social development

• Implementing strategies to support positive behaviour and promote emotional wellbeing

• Encouraging independence, resilience, and confidence in learning

• Observing, recording, and reporting on children’s progress and sharing this with the SENCo and teaching staff

• Supporting children with physical needs or personal care routines, where required

• Working collaboratively with class teachers, SENCo, parents, and external professionals

• Facilitating access to classroom activities for children with additional needs

• Contributing to the creation of a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment

• Maintaining accurate records of interventions and outcomes

• Participating in professional development and training opportunities

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for an individual who is compassionate, patient, and highly motivated to support children with a range of additional needs. You should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, a flexible approach, and a genuine desire to make a difference in children’s lives.

The successful candidate will ideally demonstrate:

• Experience working with children with SEN in a school or educational setting

• Knowledge of different learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, and strategies for supporting children’s social, emotional, and behavioural development

• Ability to adapt learning activities to meet the needs of individual pupils

• Strong teamwork and organisational skills

• Patience, empathy, and a calm approach to challenging situations

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

Relevant qualifications in special educational needs, education, or childcare (Level 2 or 3) are desirable, although candidates with practical experience and a commitment to ongoing professional development are encouraged to apply.

Our School and SEN Provision

Our school provides a nurturing, inclusive, and collaborative environment in which children with additional needs are fully supported. The SEN team is led by an experienced SENCo and works closely with teachers and external agencies to ensure that each child receives the support they need to succeed academically and personally.

We value strong partnerships with families, recognising the importance of home-school communication in supporting children’s development. Our staff benefit from a professional, collaborative environment, access to training and resources, and a culture that prioritises the wellbeing and achievement of all pupils.

What We Offer

• A welcoming and inclusive school community

• A supportive and experienced SEN team

• Access to professional development and training

• Opportunities to contribute to inclusive teaching practices

• Recognition for your role in children’s educational and personal development

This is a term-time only position and may be offered on a full-time or part-time basis , depending on the needs of the school. It is ideal for candidates seeking a long-term position in a primary school and who are committed to supporting children with additional needs.

Safeguarding

The school is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, and relevant pre-employment checks in line with statutory safeguarding guidance.