Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)

Location: London Borough of Hounslow
Position Type: Full-Time | Long-Term | Term-Time Only
Start Date: Immediate or Next Academic Term
Pay Rate: Competitive, based on experience

Where Patience Meets Purpose – SEN Teaching Assistant Opportunities in Hounslow

Schools across the London Borough of Hounslow are seeking committed and compassionate Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants to support pupils who require additional help to access learning, regulate emotions, and build confidence within the school environment.

This role is ideal for individuals who are motivated by progress rather than perfection — people who understand that success for children with SEN can look different every day, and that consistency, understanding, and belief are key.

About Education in Hounslow

Hounslow is a borough known for its inclusive approach to education and its investment in SEND provision. Schools work closely with families, local services, and specialists to provide tailored support for pupils with additional needs.

You may be placed in:

• Mainstream primary or secondary schools with strong SEN departments

• Schools with resource bases attached

• Specialist provisions supporting complex needs

Regardless of the setting, SEN Teaching Assistants in Hounslow are viewed as vital members of the school community.

Your Day-to-Day Role

As an SEN TA, your role will focus on supporting pupils both academically and emotionally. You will work alongside teachers and SEN professionals to help pupils feel safe, supported, and capable of learning.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis or in small groups

• Assisting children with ASD, ADHD, SEMH, speech and language needs, dyslexia, and learning difficulties

• Helping pupils manage emotions and behaviour

• Supporting access to the curriculum through adapted resources

• Encouraging independence and resilience

• Reinforcing positive behaviour strategies

• Supporting communication and social interaction

• Assisting with transitions between activities

• Monitoring progress and reporting observations

• Helping pupils develop routines and structure

In some settings, you may also support:

• Sensory regulation activities

• Outdoor learning sessions

• Personal care needs (where required and fully supported)

Who This Role Is For

Schools in Hounslow are open to candidates from a range of backgrounds. While previous SEN experience is beneficial, it is not essential.

You will thrive in this role if you are:

• Calm under pressure

• Patient and empathetic

• Willing to learn and take guidance

• Comfortable supporting children with additional needs

• Able to build positive relationships

• Reliable and consistent

Common applicant backgrounds include:

• SEN Teaching Assistants or Learning Support Assistants

• Care or support workers

• Psychology or education graduates

• Youth workers or mentors

• Individuals with personal SEN experience

Full training and ongoing support are often provided.

Why SEN Work Matters

Children with SEN often face daily challenges that others do not see. As an SEN TA, you become:

• A consistent adult they trust

• A calm presence in moments of dysregulation

• An advocate for their needs

• A guide through the school day

Progress may be small — but it is powerful.

Professional Development & Support

Schools in Hounslow place high value on staff development. Many offer:

• SEN-specific training

• Behaviour support and de-escalation strategies

• Autism awareness training

• Clear communication with SENCOs

• Opportunities to progress within education

This role is an excellent foundation for careers in:

• Teaching

• Educational psychology

• Speech and language therapy

• SEN leadership

• Child and adolescent support services

Working Conditions

• Term-time only

• Typical school hours (8:30am–3:30pm)

• Long-term placements preferred

• Supportive leadership teams

• Clear behaviour and safeguarding policies

While the role can be demanding, it is also deeply rewarding.

Safeguarding Commitment

All roles require:

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Safeguarding training

• Adherence to child protection policies

Schools in Hounslow are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

Apply Now

If you are ready to commit to a role that challenges you, rewards you, and allows you to make a lasting impact, becoming an SEN Teaching Assistant in Hounslow could be the right step.

Your patience could be the difference between a child feeling overwhelmed — and a child feeling understood.