Position: SEN Teaching Assistant
Location: Dulwich, South London
Pay Rate: £100–£130 per day, depending on experience
Contract Type: Full-time, term-time
Working Hours: Monday to Friday
Start Date: Immediate or next academic term

Introduction

A welcoming, inclusive primary school in Dulwich, South London, is looking for a dedicated Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA) to join their SEN support team. This role offers the opportunity to work with children who have a variety of learning, communication, and behavioural needs, helping them access the curriculum, develop skills, and build confidence.

The SEN TA will work closely with teachers, the SENCO, and external professionals to provide one-to-one and small group support, ensuring that every child receives the personalised support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

About the School and Dulwich Community

Dulwich is a leafy, family-friendly South London area known for its historic architecture, green spaces, and strong sense of community. The school serves a diverse pupil population, reflecting a variety of cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic backgrounds.

The school prides itself on inclusive education, where teaching assistants are integral to implementing personalised learning and support plans. The SENCO coordinates interventions and monitors progress, while TAs provide day-to-day support in lessons and during social activities.

Key features of the school include:

• Experienced SENCO and specialist SEN staff

• Calm, structured classrooms designed to support both learning and wellbeing

• Access to speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and educational psychologists

• Emphasis on both academic achievement and social-emotional development

• Opportunities for professional development, mentoring, and career progression

Staff wellbeing is a priority, with induction, training, and ongoing support provided in a collaborative and inclusive working environment.

Pupil Profiles and SEN Needs

The SEN TA will support pupils with a variety of needs, including:

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC): Supporting social communication, structured routines, and sensory sensitivities

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Supporting focus, organisation, and self-regulation

• Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs: Supporting emotional regulation, resilience, and positive peer relationships

• Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN): Targeted support to develop communication, vocabulary, and confidence

• Learning Delays: Additional support in literacy, numeracy, and accessing the curriculum

• Sensory Processing Needs: Individualised strategies or classroom adaptations for optimal engagement

Support will be delivered one-to-one, in small groups, or within whole-class lessons, depending on individual pupil needs and SENCO guidance.

Key Responsibilities

The SEN TA’s responsibilities include:

• Delivering personalised support to pupils with SEN to access learning effectively

• Supporting academic, social, and emotional development

• Collaborating with class teachers to adapt lesson content, resources, and teaching strategies

• Implementing strategies from EHCPs, behaviour plans, and individual support plans

• Supporting emotional regulation, behaviour, and social skills development

• Encouraging positive peer relationships and communication

• Assisting with classroom transitions, playground supervision, and lunchtimes

• Observing, recording, and reporting pupil progress and behaviour

• Providing feedback to teachers, SENCOs, and external specialists

• Supporting personal care needs with dignity and respect

• Promoting independence while offering structured guidance

• Maintaining a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment

Patience, flexibility, and creativity are essential qualities for success in this role.

The Ideal Candidate

The school seeks someone who is:

• Compassionate, patient, and empathetic

• Emotionally resilient and able to remain calm in challenging situations

• Confident supporting pupils with a variety of SEN needs

• Flexible and adaptable to changing classroom routines and pupil needs

• A strong communicator and collaborative team member

• Committed to inclusion, equality, and pupil wellbeing

Previous SEN experience is desirable but not essential. Candidates with experience in care work, youth work, or behavioural support are also encouraged to apply.

Training and Career Development

The school provides:

• SEN-specific CPD and professional development opportunities

• Safeguarding and behaviour management training

• Mentoring from experienced SEN staff

• Opportunities to progress to senior SEN TA or specialist roles

This role is ideal for individuals pursuing careers in teaching, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, educational psychology, or child mental health services.

Why Work in Dulwich?

Dulwich offers a tranquil, family-friendly environment with excellent parks, community facilities, and strong transport links. Working in this school provides hands-on experience with diverse SEN needs, professional growth, and the rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in children’s lives.

The school culture is supportive, inclusive, and collaborative, providing both personal and professional fulfilment.

Safeguarding Statement

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and adherence to safeguarding procedures.

Application Process

If you are compassionate, patient, and committed to helping children with special educational needs succeed, please apply today for this SEN Teaching Assistant position in Dulwich, South London.