Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)

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

Make a Real Difference Every Day – SEN Teaching Assistant Roles in Hillingdon

Schools across the London Borough of Hillingdon are seeking enthusiastic, compassionate, and dedicated Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants to join their inclusive school teams.

This role is perfect for individuals who want to work closely with children who face learning, communication, or emotional challenges, providing support that empowers them to reach their potential. Working as an SEN TA is not just about assisting with academic tasks — it is about fostering confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging for every child.

About Schools in Hillingdon

Hillingdon schools pride themselves on their inclusive ethos and commitment to pupil wellbeing. SEN provision is taken seriously, with schools offering tailored support for children with a variety of needs including:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs

• Speech, language, and communication difficulties

• Dyslexia and other learning challenges

SEN TAs are valued as key members of the school team, working alongside teachers, SENCOs, therapists, and families to ensure each child has access to learning, support, and care.

Your Role as an SEN Teaching Assistant

As an SEN TA in Hillingdon, your day-to-day responsibilities may include:

• Providing 1:1 or small group support for pupils with additional needs

• Assisting children with ASD, ADHD, SEMH, or learning difficulties

• Supporting pupils to stay engaged, focused, and regulated during lessons

• Encouraging positive behaviour and self-regulation

• Helping pupils develop social skills and confidence

• Adapting learning materials and resources to meet individual needs

• Observing and recording pupil progress for teachers and SENCOs

• Assisting with transitions between activities or classrooms

• Supporting sensory or therapeutic activities

• Helping pupils with personal care needs where appropriate

Your role will also involve acting as a consistent, positive presence in children’s lives, providing reassurance, guidance, and encouragement throughout the school day.

Who We Are Looking For

Hillingdon schools value personal qualities just as much as prior experience. You will thrive in this role if you are:

• Patient, compassionate, and adaptable

• Confident in working with children with diverse needs

• Observant, proactive, and reliable

• Able to build strong relationships with pupils and colleagues

• Dedicated to inclusion and equal opportunities

While experience as an SEN TA or Learning Support Assistant is advantageous, many schools welcome applicants who are new to the role but passionate about supporting children. Backgrounds that often translate well include:

• Care work or youth work

• Early years or nursery experience

• Psychology, education, or child development studies

• Parenting or personal SEN experience

Training and ongoing support are provided to ensure you are confident and effective in your role.

Why Work in Hillingdon?

• Schools are well-resourced with a strong emphasis on inclusion

• Friendly, supportive, and collaborative staff teams

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression

• Term-time hours offering work-life balance

• Work in a diverse and inclusive community

Many SEN TAs in Hillingdon progress to higher-level support roles, teaching, or specialist positions within education.

Professional Development & Support

Hillingdon schools offer a range of training opportunities, including:

• Behaviour management and de-escalation techniques

• Autism and SEMH awareness

• Social and emotional learning support strategies

• Speech, language, and communication interventions

• Career progression pathways within SEN

This ensures that you not only support pupils effectively but also continue to develop professionally.

Working Conditions

• Term-time only

• Typical school hours: 8:30am–3:30pm

• Long-term placements preferred

• Supportive environments with clear policies on safeguarding and behaviour

While the role is challenging, it is deeply rewarding, with the opportunity to see measurable progress and development in pupils you support.

Safeguarding Commitment

All SEN TA roles require:

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Safeguarding training

• Adherence to school policies

Hillingdon schools are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this responsibility.

Apply Today

If you are ready to take on a meaningful, rewarding role where your patience, empathy, and commitment can make a lasting impact, becoming an SEN Teaching Assistant in Hillingdon is an ideal opportunity.

You will provide essential support, helping children build confidence, independence, and skills that will serve them for life.