SEN Teaching Assistant

SEN Teaching Assistant (Outdoor & Forest School Specialist)

Location

Somerset

Contract Type

Short-Term / Temporary

Salary

Competitive (dependent on experience)

About Our Client's School

Randstad Education is proud to partner with an approved independent special school in Somerset catering to pupils from Key Stage 2 through to Secondary and Post-16. All young people at this school have Special Educational Needs (SEN) as their primary need, alongside unique sensory and nurturing requirements.

Many of the students arrive with a history of poor attendance, placement gaps, and exclusions, meaning they have missed significant periods of education. The school's curriculum is entirely bespoke, creative, and active-designed specifically to re-engage these students, inspire them, and help them acquire vital life skills. It's a significant challenge, but one their dedicated team meets every day with boundless energy and enthusiasm.

The Role

Why We Need You

On behalf of our client, we are seeking an exceptional, energetic SEN Teaching Assistant for a short-term placement who can bring the classroom outside. The school passionately believes that active, hands-on learning is the key to re-engaging young people.

In this role, you won't just be supporting academics; you will be utilising outdoor education to build resilience, trust, and self-esteem.

Key Responsibilities

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Supporting pupils (KS2 to Post-16) with diverse SEN, sensory, and nurturing needs on a 1:1 or small-group basis.

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Assisting in the delivery of an active, exciting curriculum, with a specific focus on outdoor education and Forest School initiatives.

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Building exceptionally strong, trust-based relationships to support pupils' academic, personal, and social development.

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Managing challenging behaviours with empathy, patience, and positive de-escalation strategies.

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Helping pupils overcome barriers to learning caused by previous educational gaps.

What We Are Looking For

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Driving Licence (Compulsory)

Due to the nature of the outdoor curriculum and potential travel between sites, a full, clean UK driving licence is essential for this role.

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Experience

Proven experience working within an SEN setting.

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Outdoor Expertise

Strong experience or qualifications in Outdoor Education, Forest School, or outdoor learning environments. You must be comfortable leading and supporting activities in all weathers!

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Attributes

High energy, enthusiasm, and a resilient nature. You need to be a team player who can think on your feet.

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Values

A deep commitment to safeguarding and child protection. (A thorough understanding of the latest Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines is essential).

How to Apply & Contact Information

If you have a valid driving licence, the passion to motivate vulnerable young people, and want to make a real difference in a short space of time, Randstad wants to hear from you today!

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To Apply

Please email your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your outdoor education and SEN experience to hannah.joyner@randstad.co.uk.

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To Discuss the Role

For more information or an informal chat about this position, please call 01293 527416.