Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant / Trainee Tutor (SEN / SEND / ASD)

Location: East Grinstead, West Sussex
Salary: £24,303 per annum
Hours: 8:45am - 5:00pm, Monday to Friday (Term Time Only)
Start Date: September 2026

Start a Career That Makes a Real Difference

Are you looking to build a rewarding career supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs?

A specialist SEN school in East Grinstead is looking for a compassionate and motivated Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant / Trainee Tutor to join their dedicated team. This is an excellent opportunity for graduates, aspiring Teaching Assistants, or those with experience in care, youth work or support roles who are keen to develop a long-term career in specialist education.

No previous school experience is required. Full training, ongoing support and excellent career development opportunities are provided, making this the ideal first step into SEN education.

Please note: Due to the school's rural location, a full UK driving licence or access to your own transport are essential.

The Role

As a Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant, you'll work alongside experienced teachers, therapists and specialist support staff to help pupils overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential.

You'll support children and young people with a range of additional needs, including:

• Autism (ASC/ASD)
• Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
• Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD)
• Sensory and communication needs
• Complex learning and physical needs

Every day is different, but your role will centre around building positive relationships, encouraging independence and creating an environment where every pupil feels safe, supported and able to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support tailored to each pupil's individual needs
• Support learning, communication and classroom engagement
• Help pupils develop confidence, independence and life skills
• Assist with sensory activities and personalised learning programmes
• Promote positive behaviour, emotional regulation and wellbeing
• Provide personal care and physical support where required
• Work closely with teachers, therapists and the wider multidisciplinary team
• Celebrate progress and encourage pupils to achieve their individual goals

Who We're Looking For

This role would suit:

• Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, Education or Childhood Studies graduates
• Aspiring SEN Teaching Assistants or Learning Support Assistants
• Individuals considering careers in teaching, Educational Psychology, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy or children's social care
• Candidates with experience in care, support work, youth work, mentoring or coaching
• Anyone with a genuine passion for supporting children and young people with additional needs

About You

You'll be someone who:

• Is patient, compassionate and resilient
• Has a genuine interest in SEN and inclusive education
• Builds positive relationships with children and colleagues
• Is proactive, adaptable and eager to learn
• Can remain calm in challenging situations
• Is committed to helping every pupil achieve their potential

Why Join This School?

• Full training and ongoing professional development from day one
• Excellent entry route into SEN and specialist education
• Work alongside experienced teachers, therapists and SEN professionals
• Clear opportunities for long-term career progression
• Gain invaluable experience supporting pupils with Autism, PMLD, SLD and complex needs
• Join a welcoming, supportive and collaborative staff team
• Term-time only working pattern, supporting a healthy work-life balance
• Make a genuine and lasting difference to the lives of children and young people every day

Apply Today

If you're looking for a rewarding role where you can learn, develop and build a meaningful career supporting children and young people with additional needs, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today to be considered for this exciting Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant / Trainee Tutor opportunity in East Grinstead.

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