SEN Teaching Assistant – Specialist College Location: Poole, Dorset Start Date: ASAP Contract: Full-Time, Ongoing Working Days: Monday to Friday Hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm About the Role SENCare Recruitment is currently recruiting experienced SEN Teaching Assistants to work within a specialist college in Poole, Dorset. The college supports young adults aged 16–25 with a range of additional needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, and complex learning difficulties. We are looking for patient, compassionate and enthusiastic individuals who can provide tailored support to students, helping them develop independence, confidence and essential life skills. The role will involve supporting students in both classroom and practical learning environments, including vocational activities such as hairdressing. Key Responsibilities * Provide 1:1 and small-group support to students aged 16–25 with a range of special educational needs. * Support students with ASD, PMLD, SEMH, sensory processing difficulties and communication needs. * Assist students with practical and vocational learning activities, including hairdressing. * Follow individual Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and implement personalised support strategies. * Promote independence, emotional regulation, social development and positive behaviour. * Support students with personal care and daily living activities where required. * Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists and other professionals to create a safe, inclusive learning environment. * Build positive and trusting relationships with students, encouraging engagement and participation. The Ideal Candidate * A minimum of 6 months' experience supporting children or young adults with special educational needs. * Previous experience working with students aged 16–25 is desirable. * Experience supporting individuals with ASD, PMLD, SEMH, trauma-related needs or complex learning difficulties. * Knowledge or experience of hairdressing would be advantageous. * A good understanding of EHCPs and individualised learning approaches. * Strong communication skills, patience, resilience and a caring attitude. * Confidence supporting students with challenging behaviour and emotional regulation difficulties. * An Enhanced DBS covering both the Child and Adult Workforce, registered on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain the appropriate checks. About SENCare Recruitment SENCare Recruitment is a specialist recruitment agency providing experienced Special Educational Needs (SEN) professionals to specialist schools, mainstream schools, colleges, alternative provisions, residential settings and local authorities across the UK. We offer short-term, long-term and permanent opportunities for SEN Teachers, Teaching Assistants, Behaviour Mentors, Support Workers and other specialist education professionals. How to Apply If you are an experienced SEN Teaching Assistant looking for a rewarding opportunity within a specialist college, we would love to hear from you. Apply today or contact our recruitment team directly and ask for John Stokes at SENCare Recruitment. Safeguarding & GDPR SENCare Recruitment is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All applicants will be subject to appropriate safeguarding and compliance checks, including an Enhanced DBS check where required. By applying for this vacancy, you acknowledge that SENCare Recruitment Ltd will process your personal information in accordance with applicable UK GDPR and data protection legislation