Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant
Manchester | Flexible Roles Available | Immediate Starts & September 2026 Opportunities

Aspire People are looking to build a strong bank of Graduate SEN Teaching Assistants to support schools across Manchester. Whether you have recently completed your studies, are about to finish university, or are looking to gain valuable school-based experience before beginning your long-term career, we want to hear from you.

We have a variety of opportunities available across Primary, Secondary, and SEN schools, including:
* Long-term roles
* Short-term assignments
* Daily supply work

These positions are ideal for graduates looking to build experience supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN), Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), and behavioural challenges.

We Are Looking For Graduates In:
* Educational Psychology
* Psychology
* Education Studies
* Early Years
* Childhood Studies
* Related degree subjects

All applicants must hold a UK Bachelor’s degree.

The Role
As a Graduate SEN Teaching Assistant, you will work closely with pupils who require additional support in the classroom and around school. You may support students on a 1:1 basis or within small groups, helping them both academically and emotionally.

You will play a key role in helping students regulate emotions, build confidence, engage in learning, and overcome barriers within education. Successful candidates will be patient, adaptable, and passionate about supporting children with additional needs.

Responsibilities May Include:
* Supporting students with SEN, SEMH, autism, ADHD, and behavioural needs
* Assisting with emotional regulation and positive behaviour strategies
* Building positive relationships with students
* Understanding individual triggers and adapting support accordingly
* Helping to de-escalate challenging situations calmly and professionally
* Supporting students academically and socially within the school environment

Ideal Candidates Will Have:
* Experience working with children or young people through tutoring, mentoring, placements, youth work, coaching, or school-based experience
* A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills
* A patient, resilient, and nurturing approach
* An interest in future careers such as Educational Psychology, Teaching, SEN support, Therapy, or Pastoral work

Requirements
* Enhanced DBS on the Update Service, or willingness to obtain a new DBS
* References covering the last 2 years
* A UK Bachelor’s degree
* Availability for school-based work across Manchester

This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience within education while making a meaningful difference to young people’s lives.

If you are an aspiring Educational Psychologist, Teacher, SEN specialist, or simply passionate about supporting children with additional needs, apply today with Aspire People.

Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject, to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.