Secondary Teaching Assistant – SEN Hours: Monday – Friday, Full-Time, Term-Time Only Location: West Drayton Start Date: ASAP UES1 About the Role We are looking for an enthusiastic, patient and resilient Secondary Teaching Assistant to join a specialist secondary SEN school in West Drayton, supporting students aged 11–19 with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autism (ASD) and associated learning difficulties. The school provides a structured and nurturing learning environment, combining academic and vocational education with a strong focus on emotional wellbeing, positive behaviour, independence and personal development. You will work closely with teachers and the wider pastoral team to support students in accessing the curriculum, managing their emotions and developing the confidence and skills needed to achieve their potential. Key Responsibilities * Provide 1:1 and small-group support to secondary-aged students * Support students with SEMH, ASD and additional learning needs * Assist with academic and vocational learning activities * Support students working towards qualifications and individual learning targets * Promote positive behaviour and emotional regulation * Use appropriate behaviour management and de-escalation strategies * Build positive and trusting relationships with students * Encourage independence, confidence and social development * Work closely with teachers and the wider pastoral and SEN team What We’re Looking For Essential: * Previous experience working with children or young people * Experience supporting SEN, SEMH or challenging behaviour * Confidence supporting secondary-aged students * Calm, patient and resilient approach * Strong communication and relationship-building skills * Enhanced Child and Adult DBS on the Update Service * Right to Work in the UK Desirable: * Previous experience within a secondary SEN school, PRU or alternative provision * Experience supporting ASD, ADHD or SEMH * Team Teach, MAPA or similar behaviour management training * Experience supporting GCSE-level learning * Background in youth work, mentoring, sports coaching or pastoral support What This Role Offers * ASAP start * Full-time, Monday – Friday position * Specialist secondary SEN school environment * Supportive teaching and pastoral team * Opportunity to develop specialist SEMH and ASD experience * Long-term opportunity with potential for permanent work