Support Worker

1:1 SEN Support Worker

Location: London & the South East

Salary: Competitive 

About the Role

Cromwell Medical Staffing is recruiting on behalf of a group of valued school clients for dedicated and compassionate 1:1 SEN Support Workers to provide tailored support to pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN).

The successful candidates will work closely with teaching staff and other professionals to support the pupil's educational, social, emotional and personal development, ensuring they can access learning opportunities and thrive within the school environment.

This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting children with additional needs and making a positive impact on their educational journey.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide individualised support in accordance with the pupil's Individual Education Plan (IEP), EHCP, or support plan.
• Adapt learning activities, resources, and instructions to meet the pupil's specific needs and learning style.
• Support communication and engagement, particularly for pupils with autism, speech and language difficulties, or complex needs.
• Assist with emotional regulation and implement agreed behaviour support strategies.
• Encourage positive social interactions and the development of relationships with peers and staff.
• Support pupils during classroom activities, break times, school trips, and other educational activities.
• Assist with personal care, feeding, toileting, mobility, or medical needs where required.
• Help pupils manage transitions between activities and maintain daily routines.
• Monitor and record observations, progress, achievements, and areas of concern.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, therapists, parents/carers, and external professionals.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Adhere to safeguarding, health and safety, confidentiality, and school policies at all times.

Types of Needs You May Support

The successful candidate may work with pupils who have:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Moderate or Severe Learning Difficulties (MLD/SLD)
• Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs
• Physical disabilities
• Complex medical needs

Essential Skills and Attributes

• Patience, empathy, and resilience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build positive and trusting relationships with children.
• Good understanding of SEN and inclusive educational practices.
• Effective behaviour management and de-escalation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong observation, record-keeping, and reporting skills.
• Flexible, adaptable, and proactive approach to supporting pupils.

Qualifications and Training

Essential

• GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Desirable

• Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant Qualification.
• Level 2 or Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.
• Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education.
• Level 2 or Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification.
• Relevant SEN training and professional development.

Additional Training (Advantageous)

• Safeguarding Children Training.
• Paediatric or Emergency First Aid.
• Autism Awareness Training.
• Behaviour Management and De-escalation Techniques.
• PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System).
• Makaton.
• Team Teach Training.
• Manual Handling Training.

Experience Required

Candidates should ideally have experience working with:

• Children or young people with Special Educational Needs.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
• ADHD.
• Learning disabilities.
• SEMH needs.
• Educational, childcare, youth work, care, support work, or voluntary settings.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a caring and motivated individual who is passionate about supporting children to reach their full potential. The successful candidate will be committed to promoting inclusion, independence, confidence, and wellbeing while helping pupils overcome barriers to learning.

Safeguarding

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.