Teaching Assistant in a Special School

quietheart

I'm thinking about getting back into work after many years as a stay at home mum.
The role that interests me most is a TA in a special school. I have a child with additional needs and know I would much prefer this to being a TA in a mainstream school.
My parents both finished their careers in this role, neither of them had any direct experience or training. I realise this is different now.
There is a special school for primary children just around the corner. Is it likely that they would let me volunteer for one day a week? Should I write to the head or call? Is that a good way to start off? The courses I have looked at all seem to be for someone already employed in a TA role.
Sorry if I sound a bit dopey, this is all new to me and generally MSE is a fountain of knowledge - so thanks in advance!

doodoot

Go to the school and ask to speak to the School Manager - you will need to get a CRB check first, and the school will more than likely pay for it if they accept your offer.

Offer to go in and help out once or twice a week, but be prepared for them to ask you to do a couple or more full days...it's free labour for them.

Have a look at your local colleges for TA courses - some are taking enrolments for January right now, but most will be September starts.

Even if that school doesn't accept your offer, give some other local schools a call - it will look good when applying to college if you have experience.

I want to go down the SEN TA route too - I'm finishing my degree in May, want to start TA training in September and I'm currently volunteering in the Reception class at my DS2's school.

Hands-on experience of SEN is great for any TA job.

Good luck!

quietheart

Doodoot - thanks for your reply. I imagine having a degree will get you onto the shortlist when applying for jobs!
Are you looking at SEN work in a mainstream school or a special school?
Best of luck to you!

doodoot

Preferably at a mainstream school.

Due to personal experience with my son and how much of a difference we've seen now he has 1-to-1 support, I think that I'd find it more satisfying seeing how a child progresses alongside their peers.

As for the degree, I'm hoping that it will help but I know from speaking with other TA's that experience usually trumps qualifications.

I reckon me and thee are luckier than others in that we have personal experience of not just having a child with SEN, but that we know how the school system works when it comes to getting/screaming for/arranging support.

quietheart

What, you mean you've had to struggle to get support?! (extra large !!)
I know what you mean, hopefully we'll have more empathy for the parents because of our own experiences.