SEN Teaching Assistant

Job Title: SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Portsmouth
Contract Type: [Full-time/Part-time]
Salary:  £13.68 to £14.88 per hour
Start Date: ASAP

About GSL Education:
GSL Education is a trusted recruitment agency specialising in the education sector. We work with a variety of schools and educational establishments to place dedicated and experienced staff. Currently, we are recruiting on behalf of SEN School in Portsmouth, a well-regarded and inclusive school, seeking a committed SEN Teaching Assistant to support children with special educational needs (SEN). If you are passionate about helping children achieve their potential, we’d love to hear from you!

Role Overview:
As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a pivotal role in supporting students with special educational needs, ensuring they can access the curriculum and participate fully in school life. You will work closely with teachers and other staff members to provide personalised support, tailored to the needs of each individual student.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide one-to-one or small group support for students with a range of special educational needs, including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and more.
• Assist in delivering individualised learning plans and strategies to support student development.
• Encourage students’ engagement with lessons, promoting independence, confidence, and a positive attitude to learning.
• Support students during classroom activities, ensuring they understand tasks and stay on track.
• Work with the class teacher and SENCO to adapt teaching resources to meet individual needs.
• Monitor and record student progress, providing regular updates to teachers and parents.
• Support students during breaks, lunchtime, and school activities, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Help manage behaviour through positive reinforcement strategies, encouraging social interaction and inclusion.

What We Are Looking For:
We are seeking candidates who:

• Have experience working with children with special educational needs (SEN), though those without experience but with a passion for supporting SEN students are also encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of various SEN, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or physical disabilities.
• Possess excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong, positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.
• Are patient, adaptable, and have a compassionate approach to working with children.
• Can work effectively within a team and also independently when required.
• Hold relevant qualifications (e.g., Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant qualification) – desirable but not essential.
• Have a clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• A current DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check or willingness to undergo one.

To work with GSL Education as a SEN Teaching Assistant, you should:

• Have the right to work in the UK.
• Have an up-to-date CV with two relevant references from within the last 2 years.
• Have a DBS registered to the update service or be happy to apply for one with GSL Education

Here at GSL Education, we offer competitive pay rates, bespoke service and dedicated Consultants who will support you in securing your new role. Whether you are at the start of your career or are looking for a more manageable work-life balance, rest assured we are here for you. As experienced Education Recruiters, we have helped hundreds of Candidates gain the relevant experience and training required to become Specialist Support Staff, Newly Qualified Teachers, Fully Qualified Teachers, Education Psychologists and even gain Senior Leadership appointments.

 Please be advised that this SEN Teaching Assistant role requires strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS on the update service.

For more information about this position, please visit our website to contact the relevant branch. To work with GSL Education in the role of SEN Teaching Assistant, please apply via the application link or visit (url removed) to apply online.