SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA) – London Borough of Hillingdon

About the position

Position: Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant Location: London Borough of Hillingdon (West London) Pay Rate: £90–£120 per day, depending on experience and level of responsibility Contract Type: Full-time, long-term role with the opportunity for a permanent contract Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, term time only Start Date: Immediate or next available school term Overview of the Opportunity An inclusive and forward-thinking primary school within the London Borough of Hillingdon is seeking a committed and compassionate Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA) to join its dedicated support team. This is a highly rewarding role for someone who wants to make a tangible difference to the lives of children who require additional support to thrive in an educational setting. The successful candidate will work closely with pupils who have a range of special educational needs and learning differences. These may include Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, speech and language difficulties, sensory processing challenges, and learning delays . This role is not simply about classroom support — it is about advocacy, consistency, emotional understanding, and helping pupils feel safe, confident, and capable within the school environment. About the School The school is located in a well-established residential area of Hillingdon and benefits from excellent transport links, including bus routes and nearby Underground stations. It serves a diverse community and has a strong reputation for its inclusive ethos and commitment to meeting the needs of every child. The leadership team is highly supportive and understands the vital role that SEN Teaching Assistants play in ensuring pupils with additional needs can access learning successfully. The SEN provision is well structured, with clear systems, consistent routines, and strong collaboration between teaching staff, support staff, and external professionals. The school offers: A calm and structured learning environment An experienced and approachable SENCO Clear behaviour support policies Strong communication between staff and families Access to external specialists such as educational psychologists, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists Staff are encouraged to share ideas, reflect on practice, and take part in ongoing professional development. Pupil Needs and Day-to-Day Support As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you may work with pupils across Early Years, Key Stage 1, or Key Stage 2 , depending on your experience and the needs of the school. Support may be delivered on a one-to-one basis or through small group interventions . Pupils may require: Support with communication and language development Help managing emotions and behaviour Assistance with focus, attention, and task completion Guidance during social interactions Structured routines and clear boundaries Sensory regulation strategies Some pupils may present with behaviours that challenge, particularly during transitions or unstructured times. A calm, patient, and consistent approach is essential. Key Responsibilities Your responsibilities as an SEN Teaching Assistant will include: Providing individualised support to pupils with SEN throughout the school day Supporting pupils to engage with lessons and learning activities Working closely with the class teacher to adapt resources and approaches Implementing strategies outlined in EHCPs and behaviour support plans Supporting emotional regulation and social development Encouraging independence while providing appropriate guidance Assisting with transitions between lessons and activities Supporting pupils during break times and lunchtimes when required Recording observations and sharing feedback with teaching and SEN staff Supporting personal care needs where necessary, always with dignity and respect Helping to create a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment You will be expected to maintain professional boundaries while building strong, trusting relationships with the pupils you support. Who This Role Is For This role is well suited to individuals who are: Patient, empathetic, and emotionally resilient Passionate about working with children with additional needs Confident supporting pupils who may display challenging behaviour Adaptable and flexible in a fast-paced school environment Strong communicators who work well as part of a team Previous experience in a school setting is highly desirable, particularly experience supporting children with SEN. However, applicants with backgrounds in care work, youth work, mental health support, or behavioural support are also encouraged to apply if they demonstrate the right qualities and commitment. Skills and Personal Qualities The ideal SEN Teaching Assistant will demonstrate: A basic understanding of special educational needs and inclusion The ability to remain calm under pressure Strong observational and reporting skills Confidence following behaviour and support plans A proactive and solution-focused mindset Willingness to learn and engage in training A genuine commitment to safeguarding and child welfare Formal qualifications are not essential, as training and support will be provided. Training and Professional Development The school is committed to developing its support staff and offers: Ongoing SEN-specific training Safeguarding and behaviour management courses Regular guidance and feedback from the SENCO Opportunities to progress into senior SEN TA or specialist roles This position is particularly valuable for individuals considering future careers in teaching, educational psychology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or child mental health services . Why Work in the London Borough of Hillingdon? Hillingdon offers the benefits of working within a London borough while maintaining strong community values and well-supported schools. The borough has a strong focus on inclusion and SEND provision, making it an excellent location for developing experience in SEN education. Safeguarding Commitment The school is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and safeguarding procedures. How to Apply If you are passionate about inclusive education and want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with special educational needs, we encourage you to apply for this SEN Teaching Assistant role.

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