Learn about the ever-changing Teaching Jobs landscape and what you can expect for SEN Teaching Assistant salaries in 2024.

Introduction

The role of Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistants (TAs) is pivotal in education, as they offer invaluable support to children. The purpose of this comprehensive guide is to explore the pay for SEN Teaching Assistants in the year 2024.

Average Salaries for SEN Teaching Assistants in 2024

The salary for SEN Teaching Assistants in 2024 can vary greatly based on different factors. This is because there is no standard pay scale set for Teaching Assistants, and so employers – from schools to teaching agencies – are legally bound only by minimum wage laws.

As a TA employed on a permanent contract within a school, you can expect an increase in pay for 24/25 school year, but how much exactly depends on the response to a recent joint claim submitted by unions. In March 2024, UNISON, GMB and Unite submitted a pay claim on behalf of local government workers (including Teaching Assistants) of 10% or £3,000 annually – whichever is greater.

For now, you can generally expect a starting salary of around £18,300 as a Level 1 TA – but this can increase depending on a range of factors, as explained here:

Factors Influencing SEN Teaching Assistant Salaries

Location

The area you work in can impact your salary. Cities with a higher cost of living typically offer higher salaries compared to rural areas or regions with a lower cost of living. For instance, London jobs can often pay a little more than jobs outside the capital, in line with the more rigidly legislated teacher salaries.

Experience and Qualifications

The level of experience and qualifications that SEN TAs bring to the table significantly influences their salary or day rate. Some examples of qualifications, experience and skills that would allow you to receive higher pay for SEN jobs are:

• Makaton/PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)

• British Sign Language

• Team Teach

• Any other SEN or care related certificates or qualifications

And of course, SEN experience in general is always going to be well-received.

Full-time vs. Part-time

Whether you choose to work full-time or part-time can also influence your salary. More hours, as you'd probably imagine, means more pay. But, working part-time, particularly as a supply TA, has some advantages, as you can see below.

SEN Teaching Assistant Temporary Pay

Luckily, there are ways you can ensure higher pay in supply jobs as an SEN TA.

By avoiding traditional agencies, and opting for an ethical alternative like Zen Educate who take a lower margin, you can ensure a higher rate of pay. Browse some of their higher-paid SEN TA jobs here.

You won't be salaried for daily work, but with Zen you can guarantee a rate of pay of between £94.50 to £120 a day!

Navigating Salary Negotiations and Career Progression

Negotiating your salary as an SEN TA can be a daunting task. It's essential to understand your worth and be prepared to discuss it with your potential employer. Career progression opportunities and further training or qualifications can also lead to higher salaries.

Challenges and Rewards of Being an SEN Teaching Assistant

While being an SEN TA comes with its challenges, including emotional and physical demands, it can be extremely rewarding. The impact you have on your students' lives and the personal fulfilment you get from your job are priceless.

Conclusion

The role of an SEN TA is dynamic, challenging and equally rewarding. Whether you're a current or prospective SEN TA, it's important to consider both the financial and emotional aspects of your career choice. With the right skills, experience and dedication, there's no limit to what you can achieve in the field of special educational needs.