Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant (SEN TA)

Location: London Borough of Barnet – Edgware / Colindale Area
Contract Type: Full-Time | Term-Time Only
Start Date: Immediate or next academic term
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience

Help Children Thrive – SEN Teaching Assistant in Edgware / Colindale

Schools in the Edgware and Colindale areas of Barnet are seeking dedicated, patient, and enthusiastic Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistants (SEN TAs) to support pupils with additional learning, communication, or emotional needs.

SEN TAs are crucial to creating an inclusive school environment where children can thrive academically and socially. In this role, you will provide one-to-one and small group support, enabling pupils to access the curriculum and develop essential life skills.

About Schools in the Area

Barnet schools in this area serve diverse communities and are committed to inclusive education. SEN provision is well-established, supporting children with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges

• Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN)

• Learning difficulties such as dyslexia or dyspraxia

You may work in:

• Mainstream schools with SEN departments

• Resource bases attached to schools

• Specialist provisions focused on particular learning or communication challenges

SEN TAs are essential members of the school team, helping pupils achieve their full potential.

Your Role as an SEN TA

Responsibilities include:

• Providing 1:1 or small group support for pupils with SEN

• Assisting pupils with ASD, ADHD, SEMH, or other learning difficulties

• Adapting learning resources to meet individual needs

• Encouraging positive behaviour and self-regulation

• Supporting pupils in developing social and emotional skills

• Observing and recording progress for teachers and SENCOs

• Assisting with transitions between lessons and activities

• Supporting therapy or intervention sessions

• Helping pupils with personal care if necessary

You will be a consistent, supportive adult presence, helping pupils navigate academic and social challenges while fostering independence and confidence.

Who We’re Looking For

Barnet schools value personal qualities as much as experience. You’ll thrive if you are:

• Patient, calm, and empathetic

• Observant and proactive

• Reliable and consistent

• Committed to inclusion and equality

• Able to build strong relationships with pupils and staff

Experience in SEN or teaching assistance is beneficial but not essential. Applicants often come from:

• Care work or youth work

• Early years or nursery experience

• Education, psychology, or child development studies

• Parenting or personal SEN experience

Training and mentoring are provided to help you develop in your role.

Why Work in Barnet (Edgware / Colindale)?

• Schools with well-resourced SEN departments

• Collaborative staff teams and supportive environment

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression

• Term-time hours with good work-life balance

• Diverse, inclusive school communities

SEN TAs often progress to higher-level support roles, specialist SEN positions, or teaching careers.

Professional Development

Schools provide ongoing CPD including:

• Behaviour management and de-escalation techniques

• Autism and SEMH awareness

• Social and emotional learning interventions

• Speech, language, and communication support

• Career progression pathways within education

This ensures you grow alongside the pupils you support.

Working Conditions

• Term-time only

• Typical school hours: 8:30am–3:30pm

• Long-term placements preferred

• Supportive environment with clear behaviour and safeguarding policies

While the role can be challenging, it is highly rewarding, with visible impact on pupils’ learning and wellbeing.

Safeguarding

All SEN TA roles require:

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Safeguarding training

• Adherence to school policies

Barnet schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Apply Today

If you are ready to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives, becoming a Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant in Barnet (Edgware / Colindale) offers a rewarding opportunity to support pupils, contribute to an inclusive environment, and build a fulfilling career in education.

Your patience, empathy, and dedication will help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.