Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant – Secondary Schools (Bolton)
Full-Time | Graduate Opportunity | Training Provided
Secondary schools across Bolton are seeking compassionate, resilient, and motivated individuals to join their teams as Trainee SEN Teaching Assistants. This role is particularly suited to graduates who are interested in supporting young people with additional needs and who are considering careers in teaching, educational psychology, inclusion, or SEND support.
Role Overview
As a Trainee SEN Teaching Assistant, you will play a crucial role in supporting students with a range of special educational needs, including autism, ADHD, speech and language difficulties, social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH), and learning difficulties. Working under the guidance of experienced SEN staff, you will help to create an inclusive learning environment where every pupil can thrive.
Key Responsibilities
Providing targeted support to students with identified SEN, both within the classroom and in small intervention groups
Assisting pupils with regulating emotions, managing behaviour, and developing confidence
Delivering one-to-one support in accordance with individual learning plans (EHCPs)
Helping to adapt learning materials to ensure accessibility for diverse learners
Promoting independence, resilience, and positive engagement in learning
Working collaboratively with SENCOs, teachers, and pastoral teams
Contributing to safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusive practices across the school
Candidate Requirements
A degree in any subject; psychology, education, health, or social sciences are advantageous but not essential
A genuine interest in supporting young people with additional needs
Strong communication, patience, and empathy
A calm, supportive approach when working with students who may require emotional or behavioural support
Professionalism, reliability, and a willingness to learn specialist strategies
Prior experience in SEN, care, support work, or youth settings is beneficial but not required — full training will be provided
Why This Role Is Ideal for Graduates
Comprehensive SEN training and ongoing professional development
First-hand experience supporting a wide range of learning needs
Valuable preparation for PGCE, teacher training, SEND pathways, or psychology routes
Opportunities for progression into SEN-specific roles such as Learning Mentor, Autism Specialist, or Behaviour Support Assistant
Supportive school environments committed to inclusion and staff development
Competitive pay with full-time hours
Location
A selection of supportive secondary schools across Bolton, accessible from surrounding Greater Manchester areas.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV along with a brief supporting statement outlining their motivation for working in SEN and their suitability for the role.
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.
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