Job Description
SEN Teaching Assistant – Specialist Visual Impairment (Ages 11–19)
Are you patient, compassionate and passionate about inclusive education? We are seeking a dedicated SEN Teaching Assistant to support learners aged 11–19 who are blind or partially sighted in a highly specialist educational environment. This role is ideal for someone who believes in empowering young people to become confident, independent and resilient learners.
About the Setting
This specialist provision:
* Supports students aged 11–19 who are blind or partially sighted
* Caters for around 80 students in a purpose-designed environment offering tailored teaching, mobility training and adapted learning resources.
* Delivers individual programmes focused on academic achievement, independent living skills, and community/enrichment experiences to build confidence and self-esteem
* Upholds a strong ethos built on high aspirations, personalised support and nurturing learners towards independence and a fulfilling adult life
What You’ll Do
As an SEN Teaching Assistant, you will:
* Support adapted learning activities using tactile, audio, enlarged print and accessible digital resources
* Work 1:1 or within small groups to reinforce concepts, encourage independence and support curriculum access
* Assist with mobility practice, orientation activities and independent living tasks
* Collaborate closely with specialist teachers of visual impairment and mobility/independence instructors
* Promote emotional wellbeing, confidence and full participation in lessons and wider school life
* Help create a structured, safe and empowering learning environment
* Encourage and support students in enrichment, community activities and life-skills development
Essential RequirementsEnhanced DBS on the Update Service (Adult & Child Workforce)
A current Enhanced DBS, registered on the Update Service, covering both adult and child workforce categories.
SEN Experience or Desire to Develop in Visual Impairment Support
Experience supporting learners with SEN—ideally sensory needs—or a strong desire to specialise in working with blind or partially sighted young people.
Strong Rapport-Building Skills
The ability to build trust, support emotional wellbeing and encourage independence is essential.
Desirable Qualities
We are looking for someone who:
* Has patience, empathy and a genuine passion for inclusive education
* Enjoys using accessible technologies, tactile materials and adapted resources
* Is enthusiastic about helping students develop independence and life skills
* Thrives in a calm, structured and supportive environment
* Values teamwork and can follow specialist guidance from trained staff
Why Join This Specialist Provision?
* Work in a unique, nationally recognised environment supporting visually impaired learners
* Excellent training in visual impairment, accessible learning tools and independence support
* A nurturing, values-driven culture focused on empowering students
* Small class groups and strong multidisciplinary collaboration
* A meaningful, rewarding role where you play a key part in preparing young people for independent adulthood
How to Apply / Request More Information
For enquiries or to apply, please contact:
Tom Baker – Recruitment ConsultantEmail:
Please note:Applicants who do not provide a CV will not be contacted.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.