SEN Teaching Assistant

SEN Teaching Assistant (SEMH Specialist Setting)

Croydon, South London Full-time Term-time only Competitive daily rate (dependent on experience)

We are currently recruiting for a dedicated and compassionate SEN Teaching Assistant to join a specialist independent provision supporting students aged 11-18 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and additional learning differences.

This is a rewarding opportunity to work within a nurturing, therapeutic, and highly personalised learning environment, where the focus is on building trust, supporting emotional development, and re‑engaging students in education.

The school offers small class sizes, individualised learning plans, and a strong pastoral approach, allowing staff to make a genuine impact on each student's progress and wellbeing.

• Support students on a 1:1 basis and in small groups within the classroom
• Assist in managing challenging behaviour using calm, consistent, and restorative approaches
• Build positive, trusting relationships with students who may have experienced barriers to education
• Support students' emotional regulation, social skills, and confidence
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCO, and therapeutic staff
• Help deliver tailored learning activities in line with individual education plans
• Promote a safe and inclusive learning environment at all times

• Experience working with SEN, SEMH, or vulnerable young people (education, youth work, care, or similar)
• A calm, patient, and resilient approach to behaviour support
• Strong communication and interpersonal skillsA genuine interest in supporting students with additional needs
• An understanding that behaviour is a form of communication
• A proactive and adaptable attitude

• Relevant degree (e.g. Psychology, Criminology, Education)
• Training in Mental Health, Safeguarding, or Behaviour Support
• Experience in alternative provision, PRUs, or specialist settings

This is a specialist provision for young people who may have struggled in mainstream education. The school takes a student‑centred, therapeutic approach, helping learners develop academically, socially, and emotionally.

Students are supported through bespoke learning programmes, mentoring, and targeted interventions, with a strong emphasis on confidence‑building, independence, and future pathways.

A consistent, structured environment and strong staff‑student relationships are key to helping students re‑engage and succeed.

• Opportunity to make a real, lasting difference in young people's lives
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Excellent experience for those pursuing careers in education, psychology, or youth work
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities