Bright Star Talent is recruiting an SEN Teaching Assistant / Academic Mentor to support pupils at a secondary school in Ladywood, Birmingham.

We are looking for someone with experience supporting young people who need additional help with learning, confidence and engagement. You will work with pupils across KS3 and KS4, providing classroom support and targeted mentoring to help them access the curriculum and make progress.

This role would suit an experienced Teaching Assistant, Academic Mentor or Learning Support Assistant who can build positive relationships while maintaining clear expectations. We also welcome applicants with relevant experience in youth work or education support.

About the role

You will work closely with teachers and the SEN team to understand pupils’ needs and provide practical, consistent support. Some pupils may need help breaking down tasks or developing literacy and numeracy skills, while others may benefit from mentoring around organisation, motivation and managing their emotions.

The aim is to help pupils participate in lessons, develop independence and feel more confident in their learning.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing one to one and small group support for pupils with SEND and additional learning needs.

• Supporting pupils in lessons across a range of subjects, including English, Maths and Science.

• Helping pupils understand instructions, organise their work and complete tasks.

• Delivering targeted academic support under the guidance of teaching staff.

• Supporting revision, study skills and GCSE preparation where required.

• Adapting resources with teachers to make learning more accessible.

• Following individual support plans and contributing to agreed learning targets.

• Helping pupils develop confidence, resilience and independent learning habits.

• Using a calm, consistent approach to support positive behaviour and emotional regulation.

• Recording progress and sharing feedback with teachers and the SEN team.

• Reporting safeguarding concerns promptly through the school’s procedures.

We are looking for:

• Experience supporting children or young people, ideally in a secondary school.

• An understanding of SEND and the barriers pupils may face in education.

• Confidence providing academic support to pupils across KS3 and KS4.

• Strong literacy and numeracy skills.

• A patient, approachable manner and the ability to build trust.

• Confidence maintaining boundaries and supporting pupils who may struggle with engagement or behaviour.

• Good communication skills and the ability to work closely with school staff.

• An organised approach and a commitment to helping pupils become more independent.

A relevant Teaching Assistant qualification, degree or mentoring qualification is desirable. Experience supporting pupils with autism, ADHD, learning difficulties or social, emotional and mental health needs would be particularly valuable.

Working with Bright Star Talent

You will have a dedicated consultant who will discuss the role, your experience and your availability before putting you forward. We will support you through registration, compliance and your placement, with a clear point of contact for any questions along the way.

Safeguarding and compliance

Bright Star Talent is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all applicants to share this commitment.

Applicants must hold an enhanced DBS registered on the Update Service or be willing to apply for one. All appointments are subject to satisfactory recruitment checks, including suitable references, identity and right to work checks, verification of relevant qualifications and a review of employment history. Additional safeguarding checks may be required where applicable.

All required checks must be completed before the placement begins.