Location: Southampton
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: £22,000 to £25,000 + benefits
Sponsorship: We do not offer sponsorship - applicants must have a referenceable UK employment history.
If you have experience working with children or young people and want a rewarding career with clear development opportunities, this role is your chance to step into a specialist SEN environment, gain valuable skills, and build a future in education, therapy, or social care.
We're looking for two SEN Teaching Assistants to support students with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD). You'll play an essential role in helping them communicate, develop independence, and experience success in their own way - all while growing your expertise and career prospects in SEN.
✅ Professional development that takes you forward - Whether you're already in SEN or looking to specialise, you'll receive structured training, mentorship, and career progression pathways towards roles like Higher-Level Teaching Assistant, SEN Teacher, Therapy Assistant, or Pastoral Support.
✅ A role that values your experience - If you've worked in education, social care, youth work, or similar settings, this is your chance to apply your skills in a rewarding SEN environment and develop expertise that opens doors to exciting career paths.
✅ Specialist SEN training - Learn alternative communication techniques (Makaton, PECS), sensory engagement strategies, therapeutic interventions, and tailored SEN support methods to give you a strong foundation for career growth.
✅ Be part of a truly collaborative team - Work alongside teachers, therapists, and medical professionals to provide students with the best possible support while expanding your own professional network and expertise.
✅ No two days are the same - From learning activities to therapy sessions, sensory development, and life skills coaching, this role keeps you engaged, challenged, and inspired every day.
Helping students learn & communicate - Use sensory strategies and alternative communication tools (Makaton, PECS, assistive tech) to support learning.
Providing individual and small-group support - Adapt your approach to each student's needs, ensuring they feel safe, engaged, and supported.
Supporting therapy & care needs - Assist students with physiotherapy, personal care, respiratory support, and alternative feeding methods (full training provided).
Creating a positive learning environment - Help students develop independence, life skills, and confidence, celebrating their progress every step of the way.
✔️ Someone with experience working with children, young people, or individuals with additional needs - whether in education, youth work, social care, or healthcare.
✔️ A compassionate, patient, and adaptable person who thrives in a supportive, hands-on environment.
✔️ An individual who's eager to develop their SEN expertise and build a career in education, therapy, or pastoral support.
✔️ A team player with resilience, initiative, and a positive attitude (because SEN support can be challenging, but it's also one of the most rewarding careers out there).
✅ GCSEs in English & Maths
✅ A caring, adaptable, and resilient approach
✅ The ability to work collaboratively and take initiative
✅ Previous SEN or PMLD experience is ideal - but full training is provided for the right candidate
⚠️ Important: This role requires an enhanced DBS check with child and adult barred lists, plus a referenceable UK employment history.
If you're looking for a role that combines career growth, meaningful impact, and specialist training, this is your opportunity.
Click Apply Now and take the next step towards an SEN career that truly makes a difference.
ShortlistEdU is working alongside specialist recruiters to find candidates for this role.