Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)

Location: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames
Contract Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only | Long-Term
Start Date: Immediate or Next Academic Term
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience

Be the Support Every Child Deserves – SEN Teaching Assistant Opportunities in Richmond upon Thames

Schools in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames are seeking dedicated, compassionate, and adaptable Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants to join their inclusive and vibrant school communities.

This is a role for individuals who are motivated by making a real, daily difference in the lives of children who require extra help to learn, communicate, and thrive. As an SEN TA, your work is more than classroom support — it’s about building confidence, resilience, and independence in every pupil you assist.

About Richmond Schools

Richmond upon Thames is renowned for its commitment to high-quality education and inclusive practices. Schools in this borough take pride in supporting pupils with a wide range of needs, including learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) challenges.

You may work in:

• Mainstream primary or secondary schools with strong SEN departments

• Resource bases within mainstream schools

• Specialist provisions focused on communication, behaviour, or learning needs

All schools offer structured environments, supportive leadership, and a focus on staff wellbeing.

Your Role as an SEN Teaching Assistant

SEN Teaching Assistants are critical in helping pupils access the curriculum, manage their emotions, and build the social skills they need to succeed. Working closely with class teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and families, you will provide both practical and emotional support.

Your responsibilities may include:

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

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

• Supporting pupils to stay focused and engaged during lessons

• Encouraging positive behaviour and emotional regulation

• Helping pupils develop independence and confidence

• Adapting resources and learning materials to suit individual needs

• Observing and recording pupil progress

• Assisting with transitions, therapy sessions, or interventions

• Supporting pupils during breaks and lunchtime to reinforce social skills

Some roles may also involve:

• Supporting sensory activities or physical therapy sessions

• Assisting with personal care needs (fully trained and supported)

• Collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to implement individual learning plans

Who We’re Looking For

Richmond schools value people who are patient, empathetic, and resilient. You do not need years of experience, but you must be willing to learn and commit to making a difference.

Ideal candidates are:

• Calm, compassionate, and approachable

• Able to build strong relationships with children and colleagues

• Observant and proactive

• Flexible and adaptable to different classroom environments

• Reliable and consistent

Experience is a plus but not essential. Candidates often come from:

• SEN or mainstream teaching assistant roles

• Care work or youth work

• Psychology, education, or child development studies

• Parents or carers with SEN experience

Training and mentorship will be provided to help you excel in your role.

Why Work in Richmond upon Thames?

Richmond offers a supportive and welcoming environment for SEN professionals:

• Schools are well-resourced and value inclusion

• Staff wellbeing is a priority

• Opportunities for CPD and career progression

• Work in diverse and supportive communities

• Build meaningful relationships with pupils, families, and colleagues

Many SEN TAs in Richmond use their experience as a stepping stone toward higher-level roles, including Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), specialist SEN roles, or teaching careers.

Professional Development & Support

You will receive guidance, mentorship, and training from school leadership, SENCOs, and specialist staff. CPD opportunities may include:

• Autism awareness

• Behaviour management and de-escalation strategies

• Speech and language support

• Social and emotional learning interventions

• Career progression pathways

Your growth as a professional is as important as the support you provide to pupils.

Working Conditions

• Term-time only

• Typical school hours: 8:30am–3:30pm

• Long-term placements encouraged

• Supportive school environments with clear behaviour and safeguarding policies

While the role can be emotionally demanding, it is also incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

Safeguarding Commitment

All SEN TA roles require:

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Safeguarding training

• Compliance with school policies

Richmond schools are committed to the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all pupils and staff.

Apply Today

If you are looking for a role where your patience, empathy, and dedication will make a visible difference every day, this is your opportunity. Becoming a Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant in Richmond upon Thames allows you to support pupils in reaching their potential while building a rewarding career in education.

You do not need to be perfect — you just need to care, commit, and be ready to make a difference.