SEN Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant (Permanent) - SEN School, Cranborne, Dorset

Location: Cranborne, Dorset
Contract: Permanent - 40 hours per week, Term Time Only
Hourly Rate: £12.37 - £13.49 per hour
Annual Salary: £22,102.72 - £24,103.93 (Actual Salary)

About the School

We're working in partnership with an exceptional SEN school in Cranborne, Dorset, that prepares students for fulfilling adult lives through a person-centred approach to education. The school's ethos focuses on building confidence, resilience, emotional intelligence, and independence - helping each student achieve their full potential academically, socially, and personally.

This is a nurturing and inclusive environment where teamwork, compassion, and positivity are central to everything they do.

The Role

As a Teaching Assistant, you'll play an essential part in supporting students with special educational needs, helping them thrive in a safe and engaging learning environment. Working closely with experienced teaching staff, you'll assist in delivering a broad and balanced curriculum both on and off-site.

This is a hands-on and varied position where flexibility, empathy, and patience are key. You may be working one-to-one with a student or supporting small groups, encouraging participation, independence, and positive behaviour.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and encourage students' learning, growth, and independence.

• Assist with planning, preparation, and delivery of tailored learning programmes.

• Record and report on student progress and development.

• Promote positive behaviour and self-regulation strategies.

• Uphold safeguarding, health and safety, and wellbeing standards at all times.

• Work collaboratively with teachers and the wider school team to create a positive learning environment.

(A full job description is available on request.)

About You

We welcome applications from individuals with or without prior SEN experience. Full training will be provided - what matters most is your passion, patience, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people.

Essential:

• Full UK driving licence and access to your own car

• GCSE or Level 2 (or equivalent) in Maths and English

• Minimum age 21 (due to residential environment requirements)

Desirable:

• Previous experience supporting young people or working in education

• Knowledge or understanding of SEN

• Positive, proactive, and creative approach to learning support

• Strong communication, literacy, numeracy, and ICT skills

How to Apply

If you're passionate about supporting young people with special educational needs and want to be part of a caring and forward-thinking team, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply online or contact for more information.

All successful applicants will be required to complete pre-employment safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS disclosure. Shortlisted candidates may also be subject to an online search as part of the school's safer recruitment process.