Overview
SEN teaching assistant roles attract hundreds of applicants, and most of them write the same thing: "passionate about supporting children with additional needs." That phrase tells a headteacher nothing. What separates a strong application is evidence. How many pupils did you work with? What were their needs? What strategies did you use, and what happened as a result?
Amira Okonkwo is a graduate with a degree in Childhood Studies from the University of Wolverhampton. She completed two specialist placements in SEN settings, worked as a volunteer at a Saturday club for autistic children, and held a part-time role supporting a pupil with ADHD in a mainstream primary school. Her resume works because every line connects directly to the SEND Code of Practice and the realities of the job.
What Makes This Resume Work
SEN categories are named, not vague. Amira does not say she "supported children with additional needs." She specifies autism spectrum condition, ADHD, dyslexia, and speech and language difficulties. This tells a SENCo she understands the range of needs she will encounter and has already worked across them.
EHCP involvement is clear. She describes contributing to annual reviews, writing observation notes for EHCPs, and adapting targets from individual plans. These are core duties for an SEN TA, and showing familiarity with the process matters more than listing generic skills.
Sensory and regulation strategies are specific. Rather than saying she "managed behaviour," Amira explains she used visual timetables, sensory breaks, and Zones of Regulation to support emotional self-regulation. A SENCo reading this knows she can walk into a classroom and apply these approaches from day one.
Key Takeaways
If you are applying for SEN TA roles, name the conditions you have supported. Describe the strategies you used, the frameworks you followed, and the outcomes you observed. Mention EHCPs, the SEND Code of Practice, and any training you have completed in areas like Team Teach, Makaton, or PECS. Schools want to know that you understand what the role actually involves, not just that you care about children.

























































































































































































































































