SEND Teaching Assistant - Career Change Opportunity

Are you considering a career change into education?

Do you want a role where your work genuinely makes a difference every day?

We are offering a structured pathway into becoming a SEND Teaching Assistant, designed specifically for individuals looking to transition into education from other industries.

Whether you've worked in care, youth work, customer service, the armed forces, hospitality, psychology, coaching, or another people-focused role - your skills are highly transferable.

We have partnered with Creative Education to provide a comprehensive SEND Training Programme, giving you the knowledge, confidence and practical experience needed to succeed in specialist school settings.

You will begin with an in-depth consultation with one of our Specialist SEND Consultants, who will match you with a partner school based on your interests and strengths.

Opportunities available across:

• Complex Needs
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)
• Autism
• Speech and Language
• Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties
• Mainstream settings with SEND support
• Primary and Secondary schools

You will gain hands-on experience while completing structured training modules designed to build your expertise.

• A full-time position (8:30am-3:30pm, term-time only)
• Paid experience in SEND schools across Sussex
• £85-£95 per day
• Access to 200+ professional development modules
• CPD-certified SEND Teaching Assistant qualification
• Specialist mentoring and ongoing support
• Exposure to a range of school environments
• Opportunity to move into permanent school contracts
• A potential pathway into teacher training or further SEND specialisation

This opportunity is perfect for career changers who:

• Want more purpose and meaning in their work
• Have experience in people-focused roles
• Are calm, patient and empathetic
• Are confident supporting behaviour and setting boundaries
• Are resilient and adaptable
• Are available full-time and able to start ASAP (notice period no longer than 2 weeks)

Previous school experience is not essential. We value life experience, transferable skills and the right attitude.

A driving licence is preferred but not essential.

• Full-time, term-time only position
• Enhanced DBS required (full assistance provided)
• Travel within a reasonable local radius may be required to access the best training placements
• Long-term and permanent opportunities available

Working in SEND education is challenging - but incredibly rewarding. You will support young people who rely on consistency, encouragement and understanding to reach their full potential.

If you're ready for a career where your impact is visible every single day, we'd love to hear from you.

How to apply?

• You can apply for this role below or get in touch with us directly. No formal teaching qualification required. A passion for supporting children with SEND is essential.
• If you are not contacted within 5 working days, unfortunately, you have been unsuccessful for this role.
• All candidates must have a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting work. Full assistance provided.
• By applying for this role, you are consenting to Engage Education Ltd storing your personal details in our fully encrypted database, in line with the GDPR requirements.