SEN TEACHING ASSISTANT - CANARY WHARF / ISLE OF DOGS,...

Location: Canary Wharf / Isle of Dogs, East London
Job Title: Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant
Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-Term, Term-Time Only
Pay Rate: £95–£120 per day (dependent on experience and SEN background)
Start Date: Immediate or Next Term

About the Role

A modern, well-resourced, and highly inclusive school located in the Canary Wharf / Isle of Dogs area of East London is seeking a committed and enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistant to join their dedicated support team. This is a full-time, long-term opportunity for an individual who is passionate about supporting children with special educational needs and who is looking to gain meaningful, hands-on experience within a structured and professional school environment.

The role involves supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), speech and language difficulties, sensory processing needs, and moderate learning difficulties . Support may be delivered on a 1:1 basis , within small intervention groups , or as in-class support depending on individual pupil requirements.

Many pupils are supported through Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) , requiring consistent, targeted, and carefully monitored support. The successful SEN Teaching Assistant will play a vital role in ensuring pupils can access the curriculum, manage emotions, develop communication skills, and build confidence within the school setting.

About the School

This school is situated in the vibrant Isle of Dogs / Canary Wharf area and benefits from excellent transport links, modern facilities, and a forward-thinking leadership team. The school prides itself on being inclusive, aspirational, and child-centred, with a strong focus on pupil wellbeing alongside academic achievement.

The SEN provision is well-established and supported by experienced SENCOs, pastoral leads, and external professionals such as speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, educational psychologists, and behaviour specialists . Dedicated SEN spaces, intervention rooms, and calm areas are available to support pupils who require sensory breaks or emotional regulation support.

SEN Teaching Assistants are viewed as integral members of staff and are actively involved in planning, review meetings, and daily communication regarding pupil progress. The school fosters a positive and professional working environment where staff are supported, valued, and encouraged to develop their skills.

Key Responsibilities

As an SEN Teaching Assistant in this Canary Wharf / Isle of Dogs school, your responsibilities will include:

• Providing 1:1 support for pupils with identified SEN needs

• Supporting small group interventions focusing on learning, communication, and social development

• Working with pupils with ASD, ADHD, SEMH needs, speech and language difficulties, and sensory challenges

• Supporting pupils to access lessons by adapting tasks and reinforcing learning objectives

• Assisting with emotional regulation, anxiety management, and behaviour support using positive strategies

• Implementing strategies and targets outlined in EHCPs, behaviour plans, and individual learning plans

• Supporting pupils during transitions, including movement between lessons and unstructured times

• Encouraging positive social interaction and peer relationships

• Working collaboratively with class teachers, SENCOs, and support staff

• Monitoring and recording pupil progress, engagement, and behaviour

• Supporting pupils during breaktimes and lunchtimes where required

• Assisting with personal care needs when necessary, ensuring dignity and safeguarding

• Maintaining a safe, calm, and inclusive learning environment at all times

The Ideal Candidate

The school is seeking an SEN Teaching Assistant who demonstrates:

• A genuine passion for working with children with special educational needs

• Patience, empathy, and emotional resilience

• Experience supporting SEN pupils or vulnerable individuals in schools, care, or support settings

• Confidence managing challenging behaviour calmly and professionally

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team

• A flexible, proactive, and solution-focused approach

• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and inclusive education

This role is particularly suitable for graduates in psychology, education, childhood studies, health and social care , or individuals considering future careers in teaching, educational psychology, SEN support, speech and language therapy, or mental health services . Candidates from care, youth work, or support worker backgrounds are also strongly encouraged to apply.

Training and Professional Development

The school is committed to developing its staff and provides comprehensive training, including:

• SEN-specific training (ASD awareness, SEMH strategies, behaviour de-escalation)

• Safeguarding and child protection training

• Ongoing mentoring and guidance from experienced SEN professionals

• Opportunities to gain long-term experience and progress within SEN education

Why Apply for This Role?

• Work in a modern, well-resourced East London school

• Strong SEN leadership and structured support systems

• Competitive daily pay

• Long-term stability and consistency

• Excellent transport links in the Canary Wharf / Isle of Dogs area

• Opportunity to make a meaningful difference to pupils’ lives

Application Process

If you are a compassionate and motivated SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding full-time role in the Canary Wharf / Isle of Dogs area, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to join a school that values inclusion, professional development, and high-quality SEN support.