Job description
SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Poole
Salary: £13.68 – £16.12 per hour (Depending on Experience)
Start Date: Immediate or September 2025
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Are you passionate about supporting students with special educational needs in a nurturing and structured environment?
GSL Education are working in partnership with a respected specialist school in Poole, seeking to appoint a committed and enthusiastic SEN Teaching Assistant (SEN TA). This is a permanent full-time position, ideal for candidates who are ready to contribute to a positive, structured, and engaging learning environment for children with a wide range of additional needs.
About the School:
The school provides high-quality education for pupils aged 4 to 19 with a wide range of learning difficulties, offering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported to reach their full potential. With a broad and balanced curriculum tailored to individual needs—including specialist pathways in Early Years, Post-16 education, supported internships, and life skills development—pupils are encouraged to become as independent as possible and well-prepared for life beyond school. The dedicated staff team creates personalised learning experiences and fosters strong partnerships with families and external agencies. The school promotes core British values, mutual respect for different faiths and beliefs, and places safeguarding at the heart of everything it does, ensuring all pupils are protected, supported, and cared for in a nurturing environment. A positive Ofsted rating reflects the school’s commitment to high standards, inclusive practice, and pupil progress. Through its outreach work and collaboration with the wider community, the school also supports other schools in meeting the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities, driven by a strong belief that every child can succeed with the right support, encouragement, and opportunities.
Key Responsibilities for SEN Teaching Assistant:
- Support students across various key stages, working 1:1 or in small groups
- Assist in implementing individualised education plans (IEPs) and behaviour support plans
- Promote a calm and consistent learning environment using a positive behaviour management approach
- Collaborate with class teachers, SENCOs, and therapists to meet student needs
- Assist with personal care tasks sensitively and respectfully, when required
- Foster independence, confidence, and communication using structured support systems such as PECS, Makaton, or visual schedules
- Contribute to a safe and inclusive classroom that supports emotional regulation and development
Candidate Requirements:
- Previous experience working with children or young people with special educational needs as a SEN TA or similar is essential
- CACHE Level 2/3, NVQ Level 2/3 in Childcare or Teaching Assistance, or equivalent qualifications are desirable
- A patient, empathetic, and adaptable attitude with a passion for inclusive education
- Knowledge of or willingness to learn about communication strategies and sensory support
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and use positive strategies to manage behaviour
To thrive in SEN Teaching Assistant role, you should:
- Have the right to work in the UK.
- Have an up-to-date CV with two relevant references from the last two years.
- Possess an enhanced DBS registered to the update service or be willing to apply for one through GSL Education.
Why Join GSL Education?
- Competitive hourly rates reflecting experience and qualifications
- Long-term career prospects with permanent contracts and progression
- Access to CPD and ongoing support from education specialists
- A dedicated consultant to support your placement journey
Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection, and successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service or completing an application for a new check.
As an ethical, independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff across the UK.
For more information or to register your interest in the SEN Teaching Assistant role, or to be considered, please click ‘apply now’ to submit your full and up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.