SEN Teaching Assistant – Maidstone

Location: Maidstone, Kent Job Title: SEN Teaching Assistant Sector: Special Educational Needs / Primary Education Contract Type: Full-Time, Long-Term (Term Time Only) Start Date: ASAP Salary: Competitive – dependent on experience About the School A caring and inclusive primary school in Maidstone is seeking a compassionate and dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to support pupils with additional needs. The school has a strong reputation for inclusive practice and works closely with families, external professionals, and specialist services to ensure every child receives the support they need to succeed. The school’s SEN provision is well-established and led by an experienced SENCo who is highly supportive of staff. Inclusion is embedded across the school, and SEN Teaching Assistants are valued members of the team who play a vital role in pupils’ academic, emotional, and social development. Pupils supported within the school have a range of needs, including autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, learning difficulties, and social, emotional, and mental health needs. The school promotes a calm, structured, and nurturing environment where children feel safe, understood, and supported. About the Role As an SEN Teaching Assistant , you will work closely with individual pupils and small groups to provide tailored support throughout the school day. You may be supporting pupils on a one-to-one basis or working across the classroom to support inclusive learning. This role requires patience, empathy, and a strong understanding of how additional needs can impact learning and behaviour. You will help pupils access the curriculum, develop independence, and build confidence while working under the guidance of the class teacher and SENCo. The role is ideal for someone with a genuine passion for SEN and inclusion, whether you are an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant or someone looking to build a career within education, psychology, or therapeutic services. Key Responsibilities Your responsibilities as an SEN Teaching Assistant will include: • Providing one-to-one or small group support for pupils with SEN • Supporting learning across the curriculum • Assisting pupils with communication, emotional regulation, and social interaction • Implementing strategies from EHCPs and support plans • Supporting positive behaviour and self-regulation • Encouraging independence and confidence • Assisting with personal care where required • Supporting pupils during transitions and unstructured times • Observing and recording progress • Working closely with teachers, SENCo, and external professionals • Creating a calm, safe, and inclusive environment • Supporting safeguarding, health, and safety procedures The Ideal Candidate The school is seeking an SEN Teaching Assistant who demonstrates: • Experience working with children with SEN (school or alternative settings) • A calm, patient, and empathetic approach • Strong communication and teamwork skills • The ability to follow guidance and adapt strategies • A genuine passion for supporting vulnerable children Desirable but not essential: • SEN-related qualifications or training • Experience with autism, ADHD, or SEMH • Experience working with EHCPs Training, Support & Development The school provides: • SEN-specific training and CPD • Ongoing support from an experienced SENCo • Safeguarding and behaviour training • Opportunities to progress into SEN or specialist roles Safeguarding Commitment The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, satisfactory references, and safeguarding training. Why Apply? • Make a real difference to children’s lives • Supportive, inclusive school environment • Long-term, stable role • Excellent SEN training and development • Opportunity to build a career in SEN or education