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Examples of a Teaching Assistant's Personal Statement

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Examples of a Letter of Intent for a Teaching Job

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A teaching assistant position gives you the chance to work with kids, even if you don't have a teaching license. The application and hiring process varies, but it may include writing a personal statement covering your beliefs about education, discussing your teaching skills as well as other relevant information that highlights your qualifications. Taking time to craft a well-written statement can put you ahead of the competition, when applying for teaching assistant positions.

Succinct Opening

Your entire personal statement should be to the point. A large block of text may cause the hiring manager to skim or skip the section entirely. Personal statements typically start off with a simple description of your job title as a teaching assistant, how much experience you have in education, and the expertise you have or specific position you're seeking. This is your first impression and your chance to hook the hiring manager, so choose powerful words that make an impact.

"Energetic teaching assistant with two years of classroom experience in supporting elementary students with reading, writing, math and science activities."

Education and Teaching Experience

Describing your training and education in the field shows that you're qualified and knowledgeable about how to work with students. If you have experience in the classroom as a teaching assistant, highlight that work to show that you're ready to work with students. Other experience outside of the classroom can also fit into the personal statement, if it somehow relates to teaching or can translate to work as a teaching assistant.

"While completing my studies in elementary education, I gained knowledge on child development, teaching strategies and behavior management. I completed three practicum experiences in elementary classrooms, which gave me the opportunity to plan lessons, manage behaviors in the classroom and support student learning."

Strengths and Skills

The goal of your personal statement is to set you apart from other applicants. To do that, you want to highlight your special skills and strengths that relate to being a teaching assistant. Some people excel at connecting with students. Others have excellent communication skills with parents and colleagues. Some might know how to support kids who struggle with the learning activities.

"As a teaching assistant, I have a unique ability to see where students need support, enabling me to reteach the ideas in a way the students can understand. I also communicate well with lead teachers and with other teaching assistants, to support a team atmosphere."

Reasons for Wanting the Position

Your personal statement usually includes a section that explains why you want the position. It's your chance to emphasize why you're a good fit for the role and what you can offer the school.

"This position offers the challenging environment I enjoy, while allowing me to work with elementary students, which is the level in which I have the most experience. I welcome the opportunity to support the classroom teacher, while continuing to add to my experience."

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• Total Jobs: How to Write a Personal Statement

Shelley Frost holds a degree in education and has experience in educational management, insurance and software testing. She currently runs her own business and writes frequently on business and job topics for Chron and Intuit QuickBooks.

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Teaching Assistant Personal Statement

• CV Templates & Advice

Are you seeking advice to improve your chances of landing your dream teaching assistant role? Fish4jobs is here to help! Follow our expert advice and guidance to create a teaching assistant personal statement for your CV that helps you to shine.

We recommend that you use this 100-150 words to successfully present your knowledge, skills and past experience, as well as your great personality, to create a fantastic first impression on a prospective employer.

You can also check out our complete guide on how to write a personal statement .

What to include in your teaching assistant personal statement

Why you’re applying for the specific role:.

• Mention why have you applied for that specific role - what appealed to you in the job description?
• Highlight any past experience that relates to the role.
• Provide information on your previous education – School/University/Courses attended or completed.
• Highlight any relevant qualifications.

Your teaching experience:

• Mention what year groups have you assisted in teaching in the past.
• What subjects you have taught, or specialised in assisting with.
• Any use of assessment strategies or special features of the practices, for example, open-plan, multi-ethnic, team teaching.
• Provide examples of assistance to teachers.

Short Example:

A kind, friendly, passionate and highly experienced teaching assistant. I am an enthusiastic and motivated assistant, who has a passion for supporting children with all aspects of school life. In previous teaching assistant roles my daily tasks included encouraging students, assisting with learning, and providing support to the class teachers. This role has appealed to me as I have a keen desire to continue learning, as well as assisting students and teachers in all aspects inside and outside the classroom. With my previous experience, responsibility, dependability and enthusiasm for education I feel that I would be a great asset to your team.

Check out our guide on how to become a Teaching Assistant for more details on the role and requirements. Alternatively, check out the latest Teaching Assistant jobs on Fish4jobs today.

Related links

• How to Become a Teaching Assistant
• Teacher CV Template
• How to Write a Personal Statement

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Teaching Assistant Personal Statement for your next job

Aspiring to step into the role of a teacher brings its own set of challenges. 

Among them is creating a teaching assistant personal statement . 

This personal statement not only reflects your passion for teaching but also highlights your experiences within the classroom. 

Drafting your personal statement should be done with careful thought and consideration.

In it, you should clearly outline your role, detailing the specific teaching experiences you’ve had, and how these have shaped your understanding of the profession. 

• 1.1 Essentials of SEN Teaching: Preparing as a Teaching Assistant
• 2.1 Upholding Professionalism as a Teaching Assistant
• 3 Drafting Personal Statements: Highlighting Your Teaching Assistant Experience
• 4 Teaching Assistant CV with no experience?
• 5 Transforming Your CV: From Teaching Assistant to Qualified Teacher

Creating a Teaching Assistant Personal Statement

This guide provides advice on how to optimally structure your teaching assistant personal statement. 

Remember, your personal statement is your opportunity to showcase your passion for the role, your understanding of the classroom dynamics, and the skills you bring. 

Additionally, using a personal statement review service could be beneficial. Such a service can provide constructive criticism and suggestions to refine your personal statement, making it more likely to succeed!

Essentials of SEN Teaching: Preparing as a Teaching Assistant

Are you an aspiring teaching assistant in the field of SEN?

Be aware of the specialised demands of this position. SEN teaching brings its own set of unique challenges, but also immense rewards, putting your skills to the test in ways that other teaching roles may not.

As a teaching assistant working in SEN, your role will extend beyond the traditional realm of teaching. You’ll be guiding your students on their educational journey, navigating the unique challenges that come with providing specialised education in a classroom setting.

One of the primary aspects of SEN teaching and working as a dedicated teaching assistant is the ability to adapt to the individual needs of each student. 

The student population in SEN classrooms has distinct needs that require a sensitive, flexible approach. Your classroom methodology should reflect this, facilitating a rich and varied educational experience for your students.

The demand for specialised skills in SEN teaching is growing, with more schools seeking highly qualified teaching assistants to support their students and enhance the overall educational experience. 

This position offers an invaluable stepping stone into the teaching profession, paving the way towards a fulfilling career in schools that supply SEN support.

Ultimately, preparing to be a teaching assistant in SEN teaching is about embracing the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the classrooms and nurturing the breadth of talent found within the student body.

Bagging the Job: Elements of a Standout Teaching Assistant CV

A stellar teaching assistant CV is paramount to landing that sought-after teacher job. 

The key skill that a school looks for when hiring a teacher is their ability to interact effectively with students, so be sure to emphasise your interpersonal skills in your CV.

A teaching assistant’s role is multifaceted. 

It involves supporting the teacher in delivering the curriculum and facilitating a conducive learning environment. 

Thus, your job is not just limited to assisting with the teaching; it also requires catering to the individual learning needs of each child. 

It’s vital to highlight these skills in your CV to showcase your proficiency in these roles. If you’re applying for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) teacher job, elaborate on your skills relevant to this role.

Don’t forget to stress your commitment to the job – schools appreciate teaching assistants who can provide continuity. 

Elucidate on your earlier roles, articulating both your skillset as well as the breadth of your experience in schools. Promoting your adaptability, resilience, and dedication in your CV can significantly boost your chances of snagging that teacher job. 

Focus on these elements to create a standout teaching assistant CV and bag the job!

Upholding Professionalism as a Teaching Assistant

As a teaching assistant, your role extends into protective responsibilities, such as upholding students’ privacy and safety. 

Confidentiality and legitimate interest in students’ welfare, including their consent legitimacy, play a critical role in demonstrating professionalism.

In your professional journey, you’ll see your students growing, evolving and engaging with their environment. 

Your skills will be put to the test every day. You’ll experience various scenarios, each sharpening your expertise and teaching style. 

And with each new experience, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your role. 

As a teaching assistant, you’ll have the chance to bring out the best in your students, all in a legitimate interest for their advancement.

Always remember, when applying for this position, employers look for more than just teaching skills. 

They require professionals who value and understand consent and confidentiality. 

Upholding these principles will not only make you a competent teaching assistant but also a trustworthy guide for your students.

Drafting Personal Statements: Highlighting Your Teaching Assistant Experience

Writing personal statements for a teaching assistant position primarily involves highlighting your relevant teaching experience. 

Your experience as a teaching assistant acts as a testament to your ability to facilitate educational environments effectively. 

Incorporating your experiences assists in demonstrating your pedagogical competencies, while the personal touch provides an engaging narrative that resonates with selectors. 

Also, focusing on your experience as a teaching assistant offers a realistic view of your strengths and areas for improvement.

To truly make an impact, however, one must go beyond stating experiences.  

You need to reflect on these experiences, connect them with your personal teaching philosophy, and demonstrate how they have shaped you as a teacher.

Show, don’t tell.

Use examples from your teaching assistant experience to illustrate points and convince your reader that you would be a great fit for this role.

Teaching Assistant CV with no experience?

If you’re considering a teaching assistant position but lack direct experience, don’t be discouraged. 

All teaching assistants begin without specific experience in the role! 

However, a compelling CV is essential to showcase your potential. Here’s a concise guide to crafting a standout CV:

• Showcase Your Enthusiasm: Passion is pivotal in teaching. Students thrive on enthusiasm, which can be a driving force in their motivation. Highlight your keen interest in the teaching assistant role and your willingness to learn. Additionally, research the school you’re applying to and mention specific aspects that attract you to it.
• Highlight Transferable Skills: Without direct teaching experience, lean on your transferable skills. Essential skills include literacy, numeracy, planning, creativity, organisation, and administration. Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate these skills. For instance, if you’ve written detailed reports under tight deadlines, this can underscore your literacy and time-management abilities.
• Include Relevant Experiences: Any experience with children, whether through kids’ clubs, sports teams, or scouts, can be beneficial. Even informal teaching experiences with adults or in other educational settings can be valuable. These instances not only show your capability but also further emphasise your enthusiasm.
• Emphasise Your Education: Highlight your educational background, especially in reading, writing, and numeracy. Depending on the school’s requirements, also consider mentioning any IT skills or qualifications you possess.
• Ensure Error-Free Content: Demonstrating attention to detail is crucial. Thoroughly proofread your CV multiple times to eliminate any spelling or grammar mistakes. Any oversight, especially after mentioning strong literacy skills, can undermine your credibility.

Transforming Your CV: From Teaching Assistant to Qualified Teacher

As a teaching assistant , it’s essential to understand how to transform your CV when transitioning to a teacher role. 

Your CV needs to showcase your hands-on experience and knowledge of teaching methodologies and classroom management.

From managing classroom activities to being attuned to the individual needs of learners; such scenarios demonstrate your readiness for a teaching position. 

If you’ve worked closely with SEN students in the past, make sure to highlight this. Your familiarity with SEN teaching frameworks can make you an attractive candidate.

Don’t forget to provide duration details of your teaching assistant experience. 

Schools want to know the length of your exposure in an actual teaching environment. Any resets you’ve had to do because of unforeseen classroom incidents not only show adaptive ability but also resilience.

Remember, your journey isn’t about changing from a teaching assistant to a teacher only, it’s about conveying your growth, passion, and commitment to teaching children.

So make your CV speak volumes about that.

Sixth Form Personal Statement Examples and Guide

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SEN Teaching Assistant CV example

Do you want to support children with special educational needs as they learn and grow? Then a SEN teaching assistant role is the perfect way to do this.

But first, you need to showcase your skills and experience through a carefully-crafted CV.

To help you do this, we’ve put together our top tips and a SEN teaching assistant CV example to guide you. Check them out below.

CV templates 

SEN Teaching Assistant CV example

Unsure of what your SEN Teaching Assistant CV should look like?

Have a look at the CV example above to get familiar with the structure, layout and format of a professional CV.

As you can see, it provides plenty of relevant information about the applicant but is still very easy to read, and brief – which will please busy recruiters and hiring managers.

SEN Teaching Assistant CV structure & formatting

Your CV is the first impression you’ll make on anybody who reads it.

A disorganised, cluttered and barely-readable CV could seriously decrease your chances of landing interviews, so it’s essential to make sure yours is slick, professional and easy to navigate.

You can do this by using a clear structure and formatting your content with some savvy formatting techniques – check them out below:

How to format your CV

• Length: Think that submitting a five page CV will impress recruiters? You’re wrong! Even if you’ve got tons of experience to brag about, recruiters don’t have time to read through overly detailed CVs. Keep it short, concise and relevant – a CV length of 2 sides of A4 pages or less is perfect.
• Readability : Columns, lists, bullet points, bold text and subtle colour can all help to aid the readability of your CV. Your overarching goal should be to make the content as easy to read and navigate as possible, whilst also aiming to make your key skills and achievements stand out.
• CV design: While it’s okay to add your own spin to your CV, avoid overdoing the design. If you go for something elaborate, you might end up frustrating recruiters who, above anything, value simplicity and clarity.
• Photographs: Headshot photos aren’t required in a CV by most employers, but some creative and artistic industries like to see them. If you decide to include one, make sure you look smart and professional in the picture.

Quick tip: Creating a professional CV style can be difficult and time-consuming when using Microsoft Word or Google Docs. To create a winning CV quickly, try our quick-and-easy CV Builder and use one of their eye-catching professional CV templates.

CV structure

When writing your CV , break up the content into the following key sections, to ensure it can be easily digested by busy recruiters and hiring managers:

• Contact details – Always list these at the very top of your CV – you don’t want them to be missed!
• Profile – An introductory paragraph, intended to grab recruiters attention and summarise your offering.
• Work experience / career history – Working from your current role and working backwards, list your relevant work experience.
• Education – Create a snappy summary of your education and qualifications.
• Interest and hobbies – An optional section to document any hobbies that demonstrate transferable skills.

Now, let’s take a closer look at what you should include in each section of your CV.

CV Contact Details

Make it easy for recruiters to get in touch, by heading your CV with your contact details.

There’s no need for excessive details – just list the basics:

• Mobile number
• Email address – Use a professional address with no nicknames.
• Location – Just write your general location, such as ‘London’ or ‘Cardiff’ – there’s no need to put your full address.
• LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL

SEN Teaching Assistant CV Profile

Recruiters and hiring managers are busy, so it’s essential to catch their attention from the get-go.

A strong introductory profile (or personal statement , for junior candidates) at the top of the CV is the first thing they’ll read, so it’s a great chance to make an impression.

It should be a short but punchy summary of your key skills, relevant experience and accomplishments.

Ultimately, it should explain why you’re a great fit for the role you’re applying for and inspire recruiters to read the rest of your CV.

CV profile writing tips:

• Make it short and sharp: When it comes to CV profile length, less is more, as recruiters are often time-strapped. Aim for around of 3-5 persuasive lines.
• Tailor it: Before writing your CV, make sure to do some research. Figure out exactly what your desired employers are looking for and make sure that you are making those requirements prominent in your CV profile, and throughout.
• Don’t add an objective: Avoid discussing your career goals in your CV profile – if you think they’re necessary, briefly mention them in your cover letter instead.
• Avoid generic phrases: Clichés like “ blue-sky thinker with a go-getter attitude” might sound impressive to you, but they don’t actually tell the recruiter much about you. Concentrate on highlighting hard facts and skills, as recruiters are more likely to take these on board.

Example CV profile for SEN Teaching Assistant

What to include in your sen teaching assistant cv profile.

• Summary of experience: Start with a brief summary of your relevant experience so far. How many years experience do you have? What type of companies have you worked for? What industries/sectors have you worked in? What are your specialisms?
• Relevant skills: Make your most relevant SEN Teaching Assistant key skills clear in your profile. These should be tailored to the specific role you’re applying for – so make sure to check the job description first, and aim to match their requirements as closely as you can.
• Vital qualifications: If the jobs you are applying to require candidates to have certain qualifications, then you must add them in your profile to ensure they are seen by hiring managers.

Quick tip: If you are finding it difficult to write an attention-grabbing CV profile, choose from hundreds of pre-written profiles across all industries, and add one to your CV with one click in our quick-and-easy CV Builder . All profiles are written by recruitment experts and easily tailored to suit your unique skillset.

Core skills section

Next, you should create a bullet pointed list of your core skills , formatted into 2-3 columns.

Here, you should focus on including the most important skills or knowledge listed in the job advertisement.

This will instantly prove that you’re an ideal candidate, even if a recruiter only has time to briefly scan your CV.

Vital skills for your SEN Teaching Assistant CV

Varied learning support techniques – utilising appropriate techniques and methodologies to support SEN students with classroom learning.

Managing challenging behaviour – utilising appropriate strategies to manage and limit challenging behaviour, such as coping strategies, controlled breathing and redirection.

Safeguarding policies and procedures – ensuring all members of staff follow safeguarding procedures to ensure the safety of all students.

Student needs assessment – completing a detailed assessment to understand each SEN student’s needs and what special help they require.

Manual handling – utilising manual handling aids to support disabled students.

Quick tip: Our quick-and-easy CV Builder has thousands of in-demand skills for all industries and professions, that can be added to your CV in seconds – This will save you time and ensure you get noticed by recruiters.

Your work experience section

Recruiters will be itching to know more about your relevant experience by now.

Kick-start this section with your most recent (or current) position, and work your way backwards through your history.

You can include voluntary and freelance work, too – as long as you’re honest about the nature of the work.

Structuring each role

Recruiters will be keen to gain a better idea of where you’ve worked and how you apply your skill-set in the workplace.

However, if they’re faced with huge, hard-to-read paragraphs, they may just gloss over it and move onto the next application.

To avoid this, use the simple 3-step role structure, as shown below:

Start with a solid introduction to your role as a whole, in order to build some context.

Explain the nature of the organisation you worked for, the size of the team you were part of, who you reported to and what the overarching purpose of your job was.

Key responsibilities

Next, write up a punchy list of your daily duties and responsibilities, using bullet points.

Wherever you can, point out how you put your hard skills and knowledge to use – especially skills which are applicable to your target role.

Key achievements

Lastly, add impact by highlight 1-3 key achievements  that you made within the role.

Struggling to think of an achievement? If it had a positive impact on your company, it counts.

For example, you might increased company profits, improved processes, or something simpler, such as going above and beyond to solve a customer’s problem.

Sample job description for SEN Teaching Assistant CV

Working for a SEN school in York, responsible for promoting the learning and personal development of SEN pupils, enabling each individual to make best use of the educational opportunities available to them.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide guidance, educational and emotional support to students with learning or behavioural difficulties and special needs
• Assist students to overcome their learning barriers such as Asperger’s syndrome and autism
• Provide learning support for pupils in small groups and in 1-1 settings
• Ensure each pupil can access the full range of learning experiences, including providing modified learning materials that are tailored to each individual pupil e.g. worksheets, visual prompt cards etc.

Quick tip: Create impressive job descriptions easily in our quick-and-easy CV Builder by adding pre-written job phrases for every industry and career stage.

Education and qualifications section

At the bottom of your CV is your full education section. You can list your formal academic qualifications, such as:

• GCSE’s

As well as any specific SEN Teaching Assistant qualifications that are essential to the jobs you are applying for. Note down the name of the qualification, the organisation at which you studied, and the date of completion.

Hobbies and interests

This section is entirely optional, so you’ll have to use your own judgement to figure out if it’s worth including.

If your hobbies and interests could make you appear more suitable for your dream job, then they are definitely worth adding.

Interests which are related to the industry, or hobbies like sports teams or volunteering, which display valuable transferable skills might be worth including.

Writing your SEN Teaching Assistant CV

A strong, compelling CV is essential to get noticed and land interviews with the best employers.

To ensure your CV stands out from the competition, make sure to tailor it to your target role and pack it with sector-specific skills and results.

Remember to triple-check for spelling and grammar errors before hitting send.

Good luck with the job search!

6 Ways to Succeed in an SEN Teaching Assistant Job Interview

• June 20, 2022

If you’re passionate about becoming a special educational needs teaching assistant, then you’ll want to be prepared for when that perfect position becomes available. Before applying for any job, you should always conduct some research to give you the best opportunity in landing an interview. Then, once invited to an interview, this is when you’ll need to prepare, conduct further research into the school/employer you wish to work for, and plan for the type of questions that you’ll be asked.  

Below are a few pointers which will hopefully help you succeed in gaining that SEN teaching assistant job that you’re after.

1. Conduct thorough research into the school/employer

There’s nothing worse than going into an interview without having done your research, because the first question you are likely to be asked is: ‘What do you know about us?’

Before any interview, it is common practice to research your prospective employer, so if you fail to prepare, then this will instantly put you behind the other candidates competing for the same role.

Every prospective employer, regardless of whether the position is in an SEN school, or in a different sector entirely, wants to see that you are genuinely passionate about working for them. They will ask questions such as, ‘Why do you want to work for us?’ This is to gauge your level of commitment to gaining a position within the establishment, in addition to assessing your drive and enthusiasm to work in the position itself. 

An SEN teaching assistant needs to be dedicated, possess strong inclinations to learn and quickly adapt. This is because the everyday duties of the role are highly demanding, with the ability to pick up new skills necessary in order to achieve a student’s learning goals. This level of dedication should start, and show, before your interview.

2. Understand what your motivations for the role are

If you’re at this stage where you’re thinking about planning for an interview, then you are probably very committed to getting a role as an SEN teaching assistant. However, when asked by a prospective employer what your motivations are, you may find it difficult to answer in a confident and informed manner. 

Before your interview, think about what kickstarted your desire to work in a special educational needs environment. Write down a few bullet points to help you to summarise why you’d like to be an SEN teaching assistant.

Think about the questions you might be asked. For example: ‘Where do you see yourself in five years?’

If there’s an ultimate goal that you’d like to achieve in your SEN career, then be sure to mention this in your interview. A prospective employer likes to see ambition. If you really aren’t sure what the progression options are for you, then do some research on what SEN jobs are available. 

3. Revise your previous experience, including positive and negative experiences

Hopefully, before applying for your desired SEN teaching assistant position, you will have already had some experience within a special educational needs setting. Even if you haven’t gained experience within a paid role, any voluntary work that you’ve done within a special education needs environment will count towards your experience, and, again, show prospective employers that you are serious about working in SEN. 

Prepare for questions that could be asked, such as, ‘How do you ensure the safety of your students?’ You will only be able to answer this question if you’ve already worked in an SEN environment where you’ve helped and supported students, but think about a particular instance where you’ve applied your knowledge to maintain safety within a classroom.

Read through the job description of the role you have applied for, then, think about where your experience coincides with what they are looking for. Write down some scenarios where you’ve had to quickly adapt to a situation, or perhaps where you’ve gained a new skill. Try to conclude with the end result, whether that was positive or negative, demonstrating what you achieved, or what you learned from the experience.

Being an SEN teaching assistant is all about being adaptable and fully committed to helping students achieve their personal and learning goals. A student who has dyslexia will require different teaching strategies to a student who is blind, and although it’s unlikely that you’ve been exposed to every learning difficulty or disability that a student may have, you will need to show your ability to empathise and, ultimately, adapt to a situation effectively.

4. Know what your skills and qualities are

Think about what makes a good SEN teaching assistant. Summarise the qualities that are required when working in a special educational needs environment. Hopefully, you will already possess some of the natural qualities that are necessary for being a good SEN teaching assistant, which is possibly one of the reasons you were drawn to the role in the first place. But, again, prepare yourself for any questions that delve deeper into your skills and qualities.

For example, they could ask: ‘How would you describe yourself in three words?’

These personal qualities are designed by a prospective employer to ascertain whether you’ll be suitable for the position on a long-term basis. Also, bear in mind that although a question may appear open-ended, the interviewer is actually wanting you to show some initiative by answering in a thoughtful and thorough manner. For example:

‘Do you consider yourself an empathetic person?’  (The answer will hopefully be yes, but provide an example of a time you were empathetic and how this helped to gain a positive result.)

5. Prepare questions to ask the employer

The interview isn’t just a chance for a prospective employer to get to know you; this is your opportunity to find out more about the job itself and to hopefully ascertain whether it’s an establishment that you’d be happy to work in. 

Try to prepare some questions for your interviewer. For example: ‘Are there any opportunities to progress within the school?’ 

Asking relevant questions is another way for you to show a prospective employer that you are enthusiastic about the position. It will highlight your confidence and knowledge of the sector, along with showing transparent dedication to finding the right job for you.

6. Follow up with a thank you after the interview

Regardless of how you felt the interview went, your confidence and professionalism should be maintained and demonstrated through your courtesy at the end of the interview. Be sure to thank the interviewer for taking the time to see you – even if you find out later that you didn’t get the job, it was still a learning experience for you – and you could even send a follow-up email to reiterate your interest in the role, stating how much you enjoyed the interview, and that you look forward to hearing from them.

Are you looking for a role as an SEN Teaching Assistant? Then, hopefully, after reading on how to prepare for an interview, you feel more confident about applying for one of the SEN teaching assistant roles available.

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Craft Your Standout Personal Statement for Teaching Assistant Positions

Securing a job as a teaching assistant requires a compelling personal statement to showcase your skills, experience, and motivations. This eBook provides a step-by-step guide to crafting a personal statement that will impress hiring managers and land you the role.

Learn how to:

Structure your statement effectively with an engaging opening, detailed body paragraphs, and strong conclusion.

Highlight your relevant education, classroom experience, and work history.

Demonstrate your teaching-related abilities and knowledge.

Convey your passion and fit for the specific role and school.

Use vivid examples and achievements to back up your claims.

Tailor your content specifically to each job description.

Avoid common pitfalls and polish your writing.

The eBook includes:

Personal statement dos and dont’s

Templates and samples to guide your writing

Tips for formatting and supplemental documents

Actionable advice for every section

Checklists to review your drafts

Resources for next steps in your application

With the techniques in this eBook, you’ll develop a personal statement that gets you noticed and interviewed. Set yourself apart from the competition and get ready to launch your teaching assistant career!

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Interview Questions and Answers to help you Ace your Interview!

• Interview Questions

What Makes a Good SEN Teaching Assistant? (10 Example Answers)

• Posted by by Emily Adders
• September 17, 2022

Supporting children with special educational needs (SEN) in the classroom can be both very rewarding and challenging.

If you’re thinking of becoming a SEN teaching assistant, it’s important to have a good understanding of what the role entails.

In this article, we’ll look at 10 example answers to the question, “ What makes a good SEN teaching assistant? “.

You can use these answers as a basis to create your own definition of a “good SEN teaching assistant” at your next interview.

What Makes a Good SEN Teaching Assistant? – 10 Example Answers

1. patience.

One of the most important qualities for a SEN teaching assistant is patience . Children with SEN often require more time and patience to complete tasks, and it’s important not to lose your cool.

Always remain calm and supportive, and remember that even small achievements are worth celebrating.

2. Good Communication Skills

Another important quality for a SEN teaching assistant is good communication skills. You’ll need to be able to communicate effectively with both children and adults, as you’ll be working closely with both groups on a daily basis.

This includes being able to understand and explain complex information in simple terms.

3. Creativity

It’s also important to be creative when working as a SEN teaching assistant. Many children with SEN respond well to creative activities, so being able to come up with new ideas and approaches is essential.

From arts and crafts to games and role-play, being imaginative will help you engage children with SEN in the classroom.

Related: SEN teaching assistant interview questions

4. Physical Stamina

Another essential quality for a SEN teaching assistant is physical stamina. The job can be quite physically demanding at times, so it’s important that you’re able to remain active throughout the school day.

This includes being able to lift and carry equipment, as well as chasing after children who might wander off!

It’s also important that you’re able to empathize with both children and adults when working as a SEN teaching assistant.

Many people who have experience working with children with special educational needs find that empathy is one of the most important qualities for success in the role.

Try to put yourself in other people’s shoes, and always be respectful of their individual needs and preferences.

6. A Sense of Humor

Another essential quality for a SEN teaching assistant is a sense of humour! The job can be tough at times, so it’s important to be able to see the funny side of things when working with children with special educational needs.

A sense of humour will also help you build strong relationships with both children and adults alike.

Related: Teaching assistant interview questions and answers

7. Good Organizational Skills

Another important quality for a SEN teaching assistant is good organizational skills. As the job can be quite demanding, it’s important to be able to stay organized and on top of things.

This includes knowing where to find information and resources, as well as being able to keep track of deadlines and appointments.

8. Good Time Management Skills

A good SEN teaching assistant also needs to have good time management skills. As you’ll often be working with children who have different needs and abilities, it’s important to be able to manage your time effectively.

This includes being able to plan and prepare lessons in advance, as well as being able to work quickly and efficiently when needed.

9. Flexibility

It’s also important to be flexible when working as a SEN teaching assistant. The job can be unpredictable at times, and you’ll need to be able to adapt to changing circumstances.

This includes being able to work additional hours when needed, as well as being willing to try new things and approach tasks in different ways.

10. A Positive Attitude

Last but not least, it’s important to have a positive attitude when working as a SEN teaching assistant.

Remember that every child is unique and deserves the same opportunities to succeed. With patience, creativity, and a positive outlook, you can make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.

Related: Safeguarding interview questions for teaching assistants

Conclusion:

These are just a few of the qualities that are essential for success as a SEN teaching assistant. If you have these qualities, then you may be well on your way to a rewarding and fulfilling career working with special educational needs children.

Remember, patience, good communication skills, creativity, physical stamina, empathy, and a sense of humour are all essential qualities for success in any job role!

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Special Education and Inclusive Learning

The Role of an SEN Teaching Assistant

The role of an sen ta in the u.k. education system.

Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants (SEN TAs), also known as Special Needs Assistants or Learning Support Assistants, play a crucial role in the U.K. education system. They provide support to children with a range of needs, ensuring that all students can access education in a way that works best for them. This article will explore the responsibilities, skills required, and the impact of an SEN TA.

This article forms part of our series on teaching assistants .

What is an SEN Teaching Assistant?

An SEN TA is a teaching assistant who specialises in supporting children with special educational needs (SEN). These may include children with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, emotional and behavioural difficulties, or sensory impairments . The SEN TA’s main role is to provide additional support to these students, enabling them to participate fully in educational activities and achieve their potential.

Role and Responsibilities of a TA

The responsibilities of an SEN TA can vary greatly depending on the specific needs of the children they are supporting. However, some common tasks include:

• Supporting Learning: SEN TAs work closely with the classroom teacher to adapt learning materials to the student’s needs. They may provide additional explanations, simplify tasks, or use alternative teaching methods.
• Behaviour Management: Some students may have behavioural difficulties related to their special educational needs. SEN TAs help manage this behaviour, implementing strategies to promote positive behaviour and reduce disruptions.
• Physical and Medical Assistance: For students with physical disabilities, SEN TAs may provide help with mobility, feeding, personal hygiene, and other daily tasks including medication .
• Emotional Support: SEN TAs also provide emotional support to students. They help students build confidence, develop social skills, manage stress, and cope with any challenges related to their special educational needs.
• Liaison with Other Professionals: SEN TAs often work as part of a larger team, which might include speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, and social workers. They act as a liaison between these professionals, the school, and the student’s family to ensure the child’s needs are met.

How can a teaching assistant support a child with special needs?

Here are some ways a teaching assistant can support a child with special educational needs:

• Provide one-on-one support to help the child stay on task, understand instructions, and complete activities. This could involve sitting next to the student, redirecting their attention, or modifying instructions.
• Implement adaptations and accommodations outlined in the child’s Individualised Education Program (IEP) or EHC plan. This may include allowing extra time, modifying tests, providing adapted resources, etc.
• Collaborate with the lead teacher to adjust lesson plans and assignments to the child’s learning needs and abilities. This can mean simplifying instructions, reducing workload, or providing alternative activities or materials.
• Help the child work on goals and skills specified in their IEP, such as social skills, organization, reading comprehension, etc.
• Assist the child with transitions between activities, settings, or classes as needed.
• Promote participation and interaction with peers through modeling, facilitation, and social skills instruction.
• Use positive reinforcement techniques to motivate and encourage the child.
• Monitor the child’s behaviour and assist with de-escalation techniques if challenging behaviors occur.
• Provide personal care assistance if this is indicated in the IEP for disabilities that affect the child’s self-care abilities.
• Maintain clear communication with lead teacher and parents regarding the child’s progress, strengths, areas of difficulty, etc.

The key is providing tailored support while also promoting the child’s independence and inclusion. With the proper training on the child’s needs, a teaching assistant can have a huge positive impact.

Skills and Qualifications

SEN TAs require a range of skills and qualifications to effectively support students. These include:

• Patience and Resilience: Working with students with special needs can be challenging and requires patience and resilience.
• Communication Skills: SEN TAs need excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with teachers, parents, and other professionals. They also need these skills to adapt their communication style to suit the needs of the children they’re working with.
• Creativity: Finding new ways to engage students and adapt learning materials requires creativity.

In terms of qualifications, SEN TAs typically need a minimum of GCSEs in English and Mathematics. However, many also have further qualifications such as NVQs or BTECs in Supporting Teaching and Learning, or specific qualifications related to special educational needs.

SEN TAs make a substantial difference to the lives of students with special educational needs. Their support enables these students to access education in a way that suits their needs, helping to promote inclusivity and equality within the education system. They also assist teachers by providing targeted support, allowing teachers to focus on the class as a whole.How to Become a Teaching Assistant

Are you passionate about education and interested in supporting teachers in the classroom? Becoming a teaching assistant can be a rewarding career choice, allowing you to make a positive impact on the lives of students. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to become a teaching assistant, including the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience required for this role.

How Do I Become an SEN Teaching Assistant?

Understand the role of a teaching assistant.

Before embarking on a career as a teaching assistant, it is important to understand the responsibilities and expectations of the role. Teaching assistants work closely with teachers to provide support in the classroom, helping to create a positive and productive learning environment. Their tasks may include assisting with lesson planning, preparing teaching materials, supervising students, and providing individualized support to students who may need extra help.

Obtain the Basic Qualifications

While the specific qualifications needed to become a teaching assistant may vary depending on the education system and institution, most employers require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. However, having a relevant qualification such as a certificate or diploma in education or child development can greatly enhance your job prospects.

Consider enrolling in a recognized teaching assistant program, which typically covers topics such as child development, classroom management, and educational theories. These programs provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your role as a teaching assistant.

Develop Key Skills

To become an effective teaching assistant, there are certain skills that are highly valued in this profession. These skills include:

Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are essential for effectively interacting with both students and teachers. As a teaching assistant, you will need to communicate clearly and professionally with students to provide instructions and offer support.

Organisational Skills

Being organized is crucial in managing classroom materials, assisting with lesson preparation, and keeping track of student progress. Develop your organizational skills by creating systems to stay on top of tasks and responsibilities.

Patience and Empathy

Working with students of varying abilities and backgrounds requires patience and empathy. Understanding the individual needs of students and providing support in a compassionate manner is key to fostering a positive learning environment.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Classroom dynamics can change rapidly, and as a teaching assistant, you need to be flexible and adaptable to meet the evolving needs of students and teachers. Being able to adjust your approach and strategies accordingly is essential.

Gain Experience through Volunteering or Internships

To enhance your chances of securing a teaching assistant position, gaining practical experience through volunteering or internships can be invaluable. Many schools or educational institutions offer volunteer opportunities that allow you to work alongside experienced teaching assistants and gain firsthand experience in a classroom setting.

Consider reaching out to local schools, community centers, or educational programs to inquire about any volunteer or internship positions available. This experience will not only strengthen your resume but also provide you with valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of a teaching assistant.

Prepare a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for teaching assistant positions, it is important to have a well-crafted resume and cover letter that highlight your qualifications, skills, and relevant experience. Tailor your resume to emphasize your educational background, any certifications or training you have completed, and your practical experience.

In your cover letter, explain why you are interested in the role of a teaching assistant and how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position. Be sure to showcase your passion for education and your commitment to supporting students’ learning journey.

Search and Apply for Teaching Assistant Positions

Once you have prepared your resume and cover letter, it’s time to start searching for teaching assistant positions. Look for job postings on school websites, educational job boards, and local job portals. Additionally, consider networking with educators and professionals in the field who may be aware of job opportunities.

When applying for positions, be sure to follow the application instructions provided and submit all required documents. You may also be required to attend an interview, where you can further demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Continuously Learn and Grow

As a teaching assistant, your learning journey doesn’t stop once you secure a position. It is important to continuously seek opportunities for professional development and stay up-to-date with current educational practices and trends. Attend workshops, seminars, or online courses to enhance your skills and broaden your knowledge base.

Additionally, take advantage of any mentoring or coaching programs offered by your school or educational institution. Learning from experienced teachers and teaching assistants can be invaluable in further developing your abilities in the classroom.

Remember, becoming a teaching assistant is a fulfilling career choice that requires a combination of qualifications, skills, and experience. By following these steps, you can position yourself for success in this rewarding role and make a positive impact on the lives of students. Good luck on your journey to becoming a teaching assistant!

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This Example Teaching Assistant CV Will Help You Land Your Next Job

About about 2 years ago By Eloise Gladwyn

Download example teaching assistant CV here

When it comes to job hunting, a great CV is your best friend. With just a brief glance, a recruiter will decide if you are the right fit for the job. In fact, this glance can be so short, the chairman of the popular recruitment company REED stated that recruiters can spend as little as 7 seconds looking at a CV! With only a fraction of a minute to make an impression, your CV really needs to stand out.

Before we start, take a second to download the example teaching assistant CV we linked to above. We’re about to go each section in detail and discuss what you need to include in your CV to keep those eyes on the page!

1.     Personal Statement

The personal statement is the first part of your CV that a hiring manager will read, so you need to make it stand out and grab their attention. It should include a clear, succinct explanation of your experiences in the industry, or any relevant experience if you do not have direct experience from a school. You should highlight your key areas of strength here and show how you can fulfil the role of a TA. Things you can include are:

-       Ages of children you have worked with

-       Abilities of children you have worked with

-       Skills necessary for the classroom

-       Any subjects you have a particularly strong knowledge of

 You should finish your personal statement with a short summary of your personality and how it makes you a good fit for a role working with children in education. Avoid cliché, overgeneralised statements such as ‘I love working with children’ and think more granular – what about working with children do you like? Is it breaking down information into a digestible manner, or when children get that ‘eureka!’ moment when they finally get something you’ve been helping them learn?

You can finish this section by listing your core skills underneath to hook the recruiter into reading more about your experiences.

For example:

I am an able and supportive teaching assistant with over five years’ experience working with children of primary school age. I have proven experience of being able to develop effective and successful working relationships with school staff and students. I have a strong understanding of the primary school national curriculum and have tested experience of supporting teachers with lesson planning and classroom activities. I am empathetic and sensitive towards the varied needs of the students I assist, and I am passionate about working towards the collective goal of student independence.

CORE SKILLS

·       Relationship builder with teachers and pupils

·       Excellent team member with strong communication skills  

·       Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning

·       Supportive and patient disposition

2.     Employment history

This is where you list your previous work history. You can either make a list running from most recent to the least recent, or you can list by relevance to the role. Make sure to include what your job title was and list your key responsibilities. Always highlight what you did well there, and your stand-out achievements. Be sure to highlight any experience gained in behaviour management, special needs, planning, assessment, and supporting teaching staff.

Teaching Assistant

Reading Road Primary School, Epping

From MM/YY to MM/YY

Primary school of c.150 students, provided teaching assistance from reception level to Year 6 across a range of subjects.

·       Supporting the class teacher and individual needs of the students day-to-day

·       Participating in a range of lessons from classroom to games

·       Managing incidents and challenging behaviour

Achievements

·       Commended by headteacher for the continued progress of four Year 5 pupils in history

·       Asked to attend parents’ evening and provide feedback on individual pupil performance

3.     Education and Development

In this section, you should list all your educational qualifications and agreements. Schools will set their own educational requirements for applicants, but generally most schools ask for a grade 9-4 (A*-C) in GCSE Maths and English. If you are applying to teach at primary schools, GCSE Science will also be beneficial.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS

·       Teaching Assistant NVQ Level 2, Epping College July 2015

·       8 GCSEs including Maths (C), Science (C), English (B), Epping Secondary School July 2013

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

·       Teaching Assistant NVQ Level 2 (2015)

·       Clean UK driving license

·       Five day intensive First Aid course (2015)

4.     Personal interests

This section is optional, but letting your personality shine through could be the cherry on top of a winning application. Schools are incredibly social places, so a hiring manager might want to know a bit about your hobbies and interests to get a better idea of you as a person.

Standing out from the crowd is the name of the game, so if you possess a special talent you could utilise in your teaching that is perhaps hard to come by – for instance, if you are a confident instrument player or are good at a particular sport – then mention it. Your qualifications and employment history are the parts of a teaching assistant CV that will get you the job, but there is certainly no harm in letting your individuality shine through.

·       Swimming

·       Playing the flute

·       Spanish cinema

Top Tips for your CV writing

It is always good practice to check out the job description for the role you are applying for. It will contain a lot of key points and terms to respond to and weave into your CV. This will show the recruiter you have taken the time to consider what the school wants from the applicant and how you can fulfil those needs. Extra points if you provide examples of how you have fulfilled the needs in the past!

Keep your CV under two pages in length in order to keep the reader’s attention. Overloading your information with text can put recruiters off; keep your information in short, punchy bullet points.

If you’re looking to land a teaching assistant job, we hope these tips and tricks will help you get there. Follow these steps and you’ll be a teaching assistant before you know it!

Protocol Education can help you find your next role

As one of the UK’s leading educational recruitment agencies, we help hundreds of teaching assistants every year put their skills into practice in primary schools , secondary schools , special schools or as part of the National Tutoring Programme .

Even if you have no previous experience as a teaching assistant, our consultants will find you the right opportunities to get into the classroom and start changing lives. Browse our latest TA job listings or register with us to be the first to know about the best placements.

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SEN Teaching Assistant Job Description, Duties, and Responsibilities

This post provides detailed information on the SEN teaching assistant job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform.

It also highlights the major requirements you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the SEN teaching assistant role by most recruiters/employers.

What Does a SEN Teaching Assistant Do?

Special Education Needs, SEN, teaching assistants work in schools where children with a range of difficulties are enrolled.

The SEN teaching assistant job description entails integrating students with difficulties/disabilities into mainstream education system by tending to the physical needs of the students, and also providing instructional support to teachers.

SEN, teaching assistants usually work during normal school hours from Mondays to Fridays in the case of a full-time employee; however, teaching assistants may work part-time.

SEN has to do with students whose needs cannot be met through the normal classroom setting. It basically has to do with students who have mental, social, or physical difficulties, which can be clearly seen in language and communication deficiencies.

This situation places them on a level that is lower than their peers, hence the need for special attention to be given to such individuals.

A SEN teaching assistant should be involved in helping students in the classroom under the close supervision of the class teacher.

His/her work description also involves encouraging students to display confidence while learning, and to communicate effectively with other students.

The nature of this role is one that is bound to vary from time to time, or specifically on a daily basis. This is because the needs of each child differ from the other.

Therefore, the SEN teaching assistant must be able to show great flexibility on his/her job.

Performing the duties and responsibilities of a SEN teaching assistant may sometimes seem daunting and time consuming; this is why to be successful in this career, patience and attentiveness are major qualities you will need to have to effectively help children with learning difficulty.

Special Education Needs teaching assistants must follow the prevailing school curriculum; however, they should employ innovations and adaptation when necessary to effectively handle students with learning difficulties.

They should also show sincere concern and willingness to help in every situation when attending to each child. That is to say that each SEN teaching assistant should be as friendly as possible always.

SEN Teaching Assistant Job Description Example/Template

Special Education Needs teaching assistants perform various functions as they strive to make learning easy for children with learning difficulties.

Given below is a job description example highlighting major duties, tasks, and responsibilities SEN teaching assistants commonly perform:

• Organize outside-the-classroom learning activities, which include sports and/or school outings
• Work closely with both parents of children so as to achieve progress
• Develop conventional teaching methods so as to meet individual needs of each child
• Prepare lessons and resources with which to teach each child as frequently as is required
• Carry out administrative duties in the nature of keeping and maintaining records of each child’s progress
• Work with fellow SEN teaching assistants to identify specific needs of each child
• Make use of some ‘eye-catching’ instruments like computers to arouse interest in learning by children
• Work hand-in-hand with the classroom teachers to ensure that activities that are being put in place for children are related to national curriculum
• Work closely with other professionals like educational psychologists or physiotherapists
• Teach and mentor students, both collectively and individually
• Look after children’s social and emotional needs
• Attend occasional review meetings so as to plan and have a broader view of better ways to be more effective when dealing with children
• Communicate with students to determine their needs and ensure they are equally met
• Observe children to find out changes in behavior or in other areas and report such observations to the classroom teacher
• Help children in personal care, such as hygiene and clothing.

Requirements – Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities – for SEN Teaching Assistant Job

If you are interested in applying for the job of SEN teaching assistant, the following are common requirements, including skills, knowledge, abilities, and qualifications that most employers may want you to meet to be considered for the role:

• A SEN teaching assistant should be able to manage the different behaviors that each child exhibits at every given time
• He/she should have interest in children’s education
• He/she must possess good and effective communication skills so as to be able to determine the needs of each child and help him/her when necessary. The need to be attentive to and be patient with children at all times is also important
• Good verbal and numerical skills are also important
• Excellent interpersonal skills to be able to freely relate with people from diverse background
• The ability to be sensitive to the needs of children and to be firm when necessary
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• A Bachelor of Education degree
• 1-3 years cognitive experience
• Qualified Teacher Status.

If you are an employer hiring for the SEN teaching assistant position, you will need to publish a good description of the job to attract the best candidates.

To do this effortlessly, you can apply the sample job description provided in this post; you will sure be able to create a detailed description that captures the duties and responsibilities that you want the special education needs teaching assistant you desire to hire to perform.

Also, if you are interested in becoming a SEN teaching assistant, this post will help you to learn a whole lot about what the role entails. With this knowledge, you will be better prepared for the career.

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• Home: Explore careers

Special educational needs (SEN) teaching assistant

Alternative titles for this job include special needs classroom assistant, special needs learning support assistant.

Special educational needs (SEN) teaching assistants support teachers to help children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Average salary (a year)

£14,000 Starter

£23,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

30 to 40 term time

You could work

evenings occasionally

How to become

How to become special educational needs (sen) teaching assistant.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• volunteering
• applying directly

You could do a college qualification to help you get started, for example:

• Level 2 and 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools
• Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education Early Years Educator
• T Level in Education and Early Years

You may be able to get a placement working with children with special educational needs while doing your course.

Many people get qualifications or experience working with children in mainstream schools, then move into working with children with special educational needs.

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to T Levels
• funding advice
• search for courses

Apprenticeship

To become an SEN teaching assistant, you could do the:

• Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
• Advanced Teaching Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Early Years Educator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• guide to apprenticeships

Volunteering

You could get experience by volunteering in a local school or with a community organisation.

Volunteering can sometimes lead to paid work or a chance to get a qualification.

Direct Application

You can apply for special needs teaching assistant jobs if you have experience of working with children with disabilities or learning difficulties.

Each school sets its own entry requirements. You can check job vacancies with schools, local authorities and academy trusts to find out what schools are looking for.

Career tips

It'll help if you know different ways to communicate, such as British Sign Language or Makaton . It's also helpful to understand what students with disabilities or conditions need. This could include sensory impairments or autism.

The National Association for Special Educational Needs (NASEN)  produces useful guides and runs training courses and events.

Professional and industry bodies

You could become a member of NASEN  to find professional development opportunities.

Further information

Many teaching assistants have term time only contracts.

You can get more advice about working in special needs education through:

• Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
• Skills for Schools

What it takes

Skills and knowledge.

You'll need:

• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to enjoy working with other people
• to be flexible and open to change
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• active listening skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks  as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

What you’ll do

What you'll do, day-to-day tasks.

As an SEN teaching assistant, you could:

• prepare learning materials
• adapt teaching support according to student's needs
• look after children's physical, social and emotional welfare
• create an interesting environment for students
• keep records and attend review meetings
• work with professionals such as speech and language therapists

Working environment

You could work at a school, at a special needs school or at a pupil referral unit.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

Career path and progression

Your school will give you access to specific training, like British Sign Language and Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) courses.

They may also provide training on conditions like dyslexia or autism.

With experience, you may could a course to become a higher level teaching assistant (HLTA).

With further study you could become a fully qualified special educational needs or mainstream teacher. You can learn about routes into teaching from Get into Teaching .

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships in england, level 3 early years apprenticeship.

• Wage: £11,648 a year Annually
• Location: MILL HILL, LONDON

Nursery Practitioner Apprenticeship

• Wage: £13,312 a year Annually
• Location: LONDON

Courses In England

L2 certificate in supporting teaching and learning in schools.

• Provider: HEREFORDSHIRE, LUDLOW, AND NORTH SHROPSHIRE COLLEGE
• Start date: 02 September 2024
• Location: Hereford

Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (STaLiS)

• Provider: EAST SUSSEX COLLEGE GROUP
• Start date: 09 September 2024
• Location: Hastings

Jobs In the United Kingdom

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