Job Description:

Teaching Assistant - SEN Specialist (Complex Needs & Challenging Behaviour) Location: Hendon, Barnet

A specialist SEN School in Hendon, Barnet is seeking experienced and resilient Teaching Assistants who are ready to hit the ground running from day one.

This is not a role for someone new to SEN. The school works with children with complex and diverse needs, and they need professionals who already have the skills, confidence, and composure to make an immediate difference. If you know your way around challenging behaviour, complex needs, and high-pressure classroom environments - we want to hear from you.

Who We''re Looking For

You will already have experience in one or more of the following:

• Teaching Assistant or Learning Support roles in a SEN setting
• Supporting children with complex needs and challenging behaviour
• Behaviour mentoring or intervention work
• Residential or specialist care with children or young people
• Psychology, Education, or SEND-related degree with hands-on placement experience

You will be someone who:

• Has strong, proven knowledge of SEN - this is non-negotiable
• Can walk into a fast-paced environment and adapt quickly
• Is proactive, calm under pressure, and doesn''t wait to be told what to do
• Understands de-escalation and positive behaviour strategies
• Is a quick learner who thrives when thrown in at the deep end
• Brings energy, consistency, and genuine commitment to every shift

Role Overview

• Supporting pupils with complex needs and challenging behaviour across the school
• Full-time, long-term opportunity
• Working hours: 8:30am - 3:30pm
• Immediate or September start available

Key Responsibilities

• Delivering confident, experienced support to pupils with complex SEN from day one
• Using proven behaviour strategies to de-escalate and manage challenging situations
• Supporting pupils'' learning, communication, and emotional development
• Working closely with class teachers, SENCOs, and the wider support team
• Helping maintain a structured, safe, and positive learning environment
• Adapting quickly to the needs of individual pupils

Requirements

• Significant, demonstrable experience supporting children with complex needs - essential
• Strong knowledge of SEN, including challenging behaviour management - essential
• Experience in a SEN school or specialist provision - highly desirable
• Confident, proactive, and able to use initiative from day one
• DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
• Committed to a full-time, long-term role

What We Offer

• Competitive daily rates
• A long-term, stable role within a well-established specialist school
• Ongoing support and communication from your dedicated consultant
• The chance to make a real, lasting impact for children who need it most