Graduate Teaching Assist – Manchester

Are you a passionate Performing Arts graduate ready to channel your creativity into a career that truly makes a difference? We’re looking for dynamic, enthusiastic individuals to join a special needs school as a SEN Teaching Assistant supporting students with Autism, SEMH (Social, Emotional & Mental Health needs), and Complex Learning Difficulties.

This is your opportunity to bring your performance skills to the classroom and help young people express themselves, develop confidence, and thrive socially and emotionally.

Why Performing Arts Graduates?

Your background in drama, music, dance, or theatre gives you a natural advantage in education. You know how to engage, inspire, and communicate creatively, all essential for working with children who may struggle with conventional learning.

Whether it’s roleplay to improve social skills, music to aid emotional regulation, or movement to support sensory development, your talent is a powerful teaching tool.

The Role: SEN Teaching Assistant

You’ll work closely with class teachers and the wider support team to provide tailored educational and emotional support to students. No two days will be the same.

Your Responsibilities:

● Creative Engagement – Lead or support fun, expressive activities that encourage communication, confidence, and interaction.

● 1:1 and Small Group Support – Help pupils access lessons by breaking tasks down and providing hands-on guidance.

● Behaviour and Emotional Support – Use strategies to manage challenging behaviour and support students’ emotional wellbeing.

● Classroom Support – Assist teachers in adapting resources and planning activities to meet students’ diverse needs.

● Progress Tracking – Help monitor students’ academic, personal, and behavioural progress.

● Life Skills Development – Support pupils in building independence, communication, and daily living skills.

● Team Collaboration – Maintain open communication with teachers, therapists, and parents.

Who We’re Looking For

● Energetic, empathetic, and eager to learn.

● Passionate about helping children and young people with SEN.

● Confident communicators with strong interpersonal skills.

● Calm, adaptable, and patient in the face of challenges.

● Creative thinkers who bring new ideas into the classroom.

Experience in a school or SEN setting is a bonus but not essential. We value your attitude and willingness to grow more than anything else.

About us:

We are Engage Education, the most trusted education recruitment agency, with professional development and support at our core.

• Competitive pay through PAYE
• Free CPD sessions
• Your own dedicated consultant
• Receive a £50 Amazon voucher when you refer friends!
• Wellbeing support, travel discounts, and retail offers from our partners

How to apply:

You can apply for this role below or get in touch with us directly. All applicants require the appropriate qualifications.

If you are not contacted within 2 working days, unfortunately, you have been unsuccessful in this role. All applicants must have a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting work. Full assistance will be provided.

By applying for this role, you are consenting to Engage Education Ltd storing your details in our fully encrypted database, in line with the GDPR requirements.