Job Description:

English Graduate Teaching Assistant - Specialist SEN School

Full-Time | Term Time Only | Specialist SEN School | Bristol

Are you an English graduate looking to gain meaningful experience in education while making a genuine difference to the lives of children and young people?

A specialist SEN school is seeking enthusiastic, patient and compassionate English graduates to join their team as Teaching Assistants. This is an excellent opportunity for graduates considering future careers in Teaching, Educational Psychology, Speech and Language Therapy, SEN, Social Work or Youth Support.

The school supports pupils with a range of additional needs, including Autism, ADHD, Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), learning difficulties and associated social, emotional and communication needs.

The Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with teachers and specialist staff to support students both academically and socially.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting students on a 1:1 and small-group basis
• Adapting learning materials to suit individual needs
• Breaking down tasks and instructions into manageable steps
• Supporting literacy, reading and communication development
• Encouraging confidence, independence and engagement in learning
• Building positive relationships with pupils who require additional support

Why English Graduates Excel in This Role

The skills developed through an English degree transfer exceptionally well into a specialist SEN environment.

You may already have experience in:

• Breaking down complex information into clear, understandable steps
• Communicating ideas effectively to different audiences
• Supporting reading, writing and literacy development
• Understanding the importance of language and communication
• Adapting your approach to meet individual needs
• Building confidence through strong verbal and written communication

Many pupils in specialist SEN schools experience speech, language and communication difficulties. Your understanding of language, comprehension and expression can have a significant impact on helping students access learning and develop essential communication skills.

What We're Looking For

• A degree in English, English Literature, Creative Writing, Journalism or a related subject
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• A genuine interest in supporting children and young people with additional needs
• A patient, resilient and proactive approach
• Previous experience working with young people is beneficial but not essential

What You'll Gain

• Specialist SEN training and ongoing support
• Experience working alongside teachers, SENCOs and therapists
• Valuable classroom experience for future education or psychology careers
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day
• A supportive and collaborative school environment

If you're an English graduate looking for a rewarding role where your communication, literacy and analytical skills can make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
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