Full job descriptionPsychology, Criminology, or Sociology Graduates - Start Your Career in SEN - Crawley - West Sussex
Are you a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate looking to gain hands-on experience working with children and young people? This is a fantastic opportunity in Crawley for a recent or soon-to-begraduate to build an invaluable experience in a specialist SEN setting.
We are working with a supportive SEN school that caters for pupils with additional needs, including autism and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. This role in Crawley is ideal for a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate considering a future career in Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Mental Health, or Youth Justice.
The Role
As a SEN Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils on a 1:1 basis and in small groups, helping them to access learning, regulate emotions, and develop key life skills. This position in Crawley is particularly well suited to a Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduate who is keen to gain practical, real-world experience.
Key Responsibilities
*Provide 1:1 and small group support for pupils with SEN
*Support emotional regulation, behaviour, and engagement
*Assist with personalised learning and behaviour strategies
*Observe and report on pupil progress and wellbeing
*Build positive and trusting relationships with pupils
*Help maintain a safe, structured, and supportive environment
*Provide personal care where required
What We’re Looking For
*A degree in Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology
*A strong interest in mental health, behaviour, and child development
*A patient, resilient, and empathetic approach
*Strong communication and interpersonal skills
*A proactive and reflective mindset
*Experience with children or vulnerable individuals (desirable but not essential)
*Able to commute to Crawley
What You’ll Gain
*First-hand experience in a specialist SEN/SEMH setting
*Exposure to behaviour management and therapeutic approaches
*Experience working alongside a multidisciplinary team
*A strong foundation for careers in psychology or mental health
*Ongoing training and development opportunities


**Start date September, trial days taking place to ensure the role and school is right for you
**Fantastic on-site training, support and CPD is provided to ensure safeguarding of all pupils
**Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 15:30, PAYE, term time only
**£93-£105 per day
**You MUST have right to work in the UK in order to apply - no Visa sponsorship
*Candidates registering with Academics will need to have or apply for an Enhanced DBS and/or overseas police check where appropriate
*Apply now or contact Maddy Thatcher at Academics if you are a recent or soon-to-be graduate interested in the Special Needs Teaching Assistant role:
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