Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA) –Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Role Title: SEN Teaching Assistant Location: Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Salary: £85–£115 per day, depending on experience and role requirements Contract: Full-time, long-term position with the potential for a permanent contract Working Hours: Monday to Friday, school hours Start Date: Immediate start available or next academic term Introduction to the Role A well-regarded and inclusive school within the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is currently seeking a dedicated and proactive Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA) to support pupils with a range of additional learning needs. This role is ideal for someone who is genuinely passionate about inclusive education and understands the importance of providing consistent, patient, and individualised support to children who may face barriers to learning. As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a vital role in helping pupils engage with education, develop emotionally and socially, and build confidence both inside and outside the classroom. The school is looking for someone who understands that progress for children with SEN may be gradual, but that every small step forward is meaningful and worth celebrating. About the School and Setting The school is located in a well-connected area within Windsor and Maidenhead, making it easily accessible via public transport and major road links. It serves a diverse community and prides itself on fostering a calm, nurturing, and structured environment where all pupils feel safe, respected, and supported. Inclusion is central to the school’s ethos. The leadership team has invested heavily in developing strong SEN provision, ensuring that pupils with additional needs receive high-quality support tailored to their individual profiles. The SEN department works closely with class teachers, external professionals, and families to ensure a joined-up approach to each child’s education. The school offers: A supportive and approachable senior leadership team A highly experienced SENCO Clear systems and routines for SEN support Access to external professionals such as educational psychologists, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists Ongoing training and professional development for support staff Staff wellbeing is taken seriously, and SEN Teaching Assistants are valued as key members of the school community rather than additional support on the margins. Pupil Needs and Support Requirements In this role, you may work with pupils who present with a variety of needs, including but not limited to: Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs Speech, language, and communication difficulties Sensory processing challenges Moderate learning difficulties Support may be provided on a one-to-one basis or within small intervention groups , depending on the needs of the pupils and the structure of the school day. Some pupils may require support throughout the full school day, while others may need targeted intervention during specific lessons or activities. Key Responsibilities As an SEN Teaching Assistant, your responsibilities will include: Providing consistent and tailored support to pupils with SEN Supporting pupils to access the curriculum in a way that meets their individual needs Assisting the class teacher with lesson preparation and adaptation Implementing strategies outlined in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) Supporting pupils with emotional regulation and social interaction Encouraging positive behaviour and using de-escalation strategies when required Helping pupils develop independence, confidence, and resilience Supporting pupils during transitions between lessons and activities Supervising pupils during break times and lunch where appropriate Recording observations and feeding back to teachers and the SEN team Supporting personal care needs if required, in a respectful and professional manner You will be expected to build strong, trusting relationships with pupils, while maintaining clear boundaries and high expectations. The Ideal Candidate The school is looking for an SEN Teaching Assistant who demonstrates: Patience, empathy, and emotional resilience A genuine passion for working with children with additional needs The ability to remain calm in challenging situations Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced school environment Previous experience working with SEN pupils is highly desirable, whether in a school, specialist provision, care setting, or youth work environment. However, applicants with transferable skills and a strong interest in SEN are also encouraged to apply. Skills and Experience Essential qualities and skills include: A basic understanding of special educational needs and inclusive practice Confidence supporting pupils with behavioural or emotional challenges Strong observation and reporting skills A proactive and positive approach to problem-solving Willingness to follow guidance from teachers, SENCOs, and external professionals Commitment to safeguarding and child welfare Training in areas such as autism awareness, behaviour management, or safeguarding is beneficial, but not essential, as training will be provided. Training, Support, and Career Development The school is committed to developing its staff and offers: Ongoing SEN-specific training Safeguarding and behaviour management courses Support from experienced SEN professionals Opportunities to progress into senior SEN TA or specialist roles This role is particularly well suited to individuals considering future careers in teaching, educational psychology, therapy, or child and adolescent mental health services . Why Work in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead? The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is known for its strong educational standards, supportive school communities, and commitment to inclusion. Working in this borough provides exposure to high-quality SEN provision and valuable professional experience in a well-resourced educational environment. Safeguarding Statement The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check and provide suitable references. Application Process If you are a compassionate, committed individual who wants to make a genuine difference in the lives of children with special educational needs, we encourage you to apply for this SEN Teaching Assistant role today.