Teaching Assistant

Description:

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

Looking to start a rewarding career in SEN education, mental health, or child development?

A specialist SEN school in East Grinstead is seeking 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, and individuals from care, support work, or youth work backgrounds to gain valuable hands-on experience supporting children and young people with a range of additional needs.

With full training, ongoing support, and clear progression opportunities available, this role provides an ideal pathway into SEN education and specialist support.

Please note: Due to the school's location, a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential.

The Role

As a Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work alongside experienced teachers and specialist staff to support pupils with a range of additional needs, including:

Autism (ASC / ASD)
PMLD (Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties)
SLD (Severe Learning Difficulties)
Sensory and communication needs
Complex learning difficultiesYou will play a vital role in helping pupils access learning, develop communication skills, build confidence, and achieve positive outcomes within a structured and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

Supporting pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups
Assisting with learning, communication, and classroom engagement
Supporting pupils with Autism, SEND, and complex needs
Encouraging independence, confidence, and social development
Assisting with sensory activities and personalised learning programmes
Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
Providing personal care and physical support where required
Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and support staff

Who This Role Would Suit

This opportunity is ideal for:

Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, Education, or Child Development graduates
Aspiring SEN Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Assistants
Individuals considering careers in Educational Psychology, Teaching, Teaching assistants or Care with children
Candidates from care, support work, youth work, or mentoring backgrounds
Anyone passionate about supporting children and young people with additional needs

The Ideal Candidate

You will be:

Patient, resilient, and empathetic
Passionate about SEN, SEND, and inclusive education
A confident communicator and team player
Proactive, adaptable, and eager to learn
Comfortable supporting pupils with complex needs
Committed to making a positive difference every day

Why Apply?

Full training and ongoing CPD provided
Excellent entry route into SEN and specialist education
Supportive and experienced school environment
Long-term career progression opportunities
Valuable experience working with Autism, PMLD, SLD, and complex needs
Opportunity to make a genuine impact on young people's lives
Term-time working pattern supporting a positive work-life balance

Apply Now

If you're looking to gain meaningful experience in SEN education and begin a rewarding long-term career supporting children and young people with additional needs, apply today to be considered for this opportunity in East Grinstead.

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role