About the programme
Psychology Graduate - SEN Teaching Assistant | Make a Difference Every Day
Royston / Meldreth, Hertfordshire | £22,996-£25,068 per annum | Term Time Only
Monday to Friday | 8:30am-4:30pm | Temporary to Permanent
Are You Resilient Enough to Make a Difference?
Not every day in a specialist school is straightforward. Some pupils need additional time, patience and encouragement. Some days will be challenging, progress may be gradual and you will need to draw on your emotional resilience to remain positive, consistent and supportive.
But for the right person, this can be an incredibly rewarding opportunity.
Aspire People are looking for Psychology Graduates to join a specialist SEN school in the Royston and Meldreth area of Hertfordshire as Teaching Assistants.
Working with children and young people aged 6-19, you will support pupils with a range of additional needs, including Autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, communication difficulties and SEMH needs.
This is an ideal opportunity for graduates who want to understand behaviour, emotional development and learning in a real-world environment while gaining experience relevant to future careers in Psychology, Therapy, Education or Mental Health.
This Role Requires More Than a Psychology Degree
We are looking for individuals who are:
Emotionally resilient and able to manage demanding situations.
Patient and understanding, particularly when pupils find communication or emotional regulation difficult.
Calm under pressure and able to respond positively to challenging behaviour.
Adaptable and confident when situations do not go to plan.
Consistent in their approach, even when progress takes time.
Compassionate, without taking challenging situations personally.
Proactive, reflective and willing to learn from experienced professionals.
You must understand that working in SEN can be emotionally and physically demanding. You may encounter distressed pupils, challenging behaviours and situations that require you to think on your feet. The ability to maintain professional boundaries, demonstrate emotional maturity and provide consistent support is essential.
You do not need previous SEN experience, but you do need the right mindset.
What Will You Be Doing?
Supporting pupils with their academic learning and development.
Building positive and trusting relationships with young people.
Helping pupils develop communication, independence and social skills.
Supporting emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies.
Delivering individual and small-group activities.
Recognising individual triggers, needs and communication differences.
Maintaining a safe, structured and supportive learning environment.
Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals.
Providing personal care where required.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity would suit graduates with a degree in Psychology or a related subject who are looking to gain practical experience before progressing into further study or a professional career.
GCSE English and Maths, or equivalent, are essential.
We welcome applications from graduates interested in Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, Child Mental Health, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Teaching and Social Care.
Previous experience in schools, care, support work, youth work or volunteering would be advantageous.
What Do You Get in Return?
Salary of £22,996-£25,068 per annum.
Monday to Friday working hours, 8:30am-4:30pm.
Term-time-only working.
Funded training and recognised qualifications.
Practical experience in a specialist educational environment.
Exposure to multidisciplinary working.
Ongoing support and professional development.
Potential opportunity to secure a permanent position.
Ready for a Rewarding Challenge?
If you are a resilient Psychology graduate who wants more than just something to add to your CV, this could be the opportunity you've been looking for.
You will develop valuable professional skills, gain meaningful experience and play an important role in helping young people overcome challenges and reach their potential.
Apply today with Aspire People.
Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject, to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.