Congratulations on securing your trial day! Working as a SEN Teaching Assistant in a SEN school is a unique and rewarding experience. A trial day is an opportunity for you to get to know the school and for the school to see if you’re the right candidate for the position. Here’s how you can prepare to make the most of your day and leave a positive impression:
Before the Day
- Understand the School’s Needs
- Research the school’s ethos and its specific SEN provision (e.g. ASD, MLD, SLD, SEMH).
- If possible, ask your recruiter or the school for details about the class you’ll be supporting.
- Prepare for the Role
- Review basic strategies for supporting children with additional needs, including de-escalation techniques, sensory regulation, and communication methods such as Makaton or visual aids.
- Wear comfortable but professional clothing (e.g. smart-casual with flat, closed-toe shoes) suitable for an active and hands-on environment.
- Familiarise yourself with the school’s Behaviour Policy.
- Plan Logistics
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to show punctuality.
- Bring any requested documents, such as ID or DBS confirmation.
During the Trial Day
- First Impressions Count
- Greet staff and students warmly, maintaining a positive and approachable attitude.
- Introduce yourself to the classroom teacher and other staff members, asking about the day’s plans and routines.
- Engage with Students
- Observe and Adapt: Observe and understand each student’s needs, strengths, and behaviours first before stepping in.
- Build Rapport: Use positive reinforcement and show genuine interest in the students’ activities. A calm and encouraging tone goes a long way.
- Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt your approach based on the guidance of staff or the individual needs of the students.
- Be Proactive
- Support the teacher and TAs in delivering lessons or activities.
- Help with transitions between tasks, particularly for students who may find these challenging.
- Offer assistance with any hands-on tasks if appropriate and within your comfort level.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure
- If challenging behaviour arises, follow the strategies modelled by staff and the school’s Behaviour Policy.
- Remain calm and patient, using de-escalation techniques if needed.
- Ask Questions and Show Initiative
- If unsure about something, politely ask for clarification or advice.
- Volunteer to help with tasks such as tidying up, organising resources, or assisting individual students.
After the Day
- Reflect and Learn
- Reflect on the day’s experiences, noting both successes and areas for improvement, and seek feedback from the teacher or staff to enhance your professional development.
- Consider what you learned about the students and the school’s approach to SEN support.
- Follow Up
- If appropriate, thank the staff for their guidance and support during the day.
- Share feedback with your recruiter about your experience and whether the role feels like a good fit.
Top Tips for Success
- Be Patient and Empathetic: The students may need extra time and support to feel comfortable with you.
- Stay Positive: A calm and positive demeanour will help you navigate the day successfully.
- Be Observant: Watch how experienced staff interact with students and follow their lead.
- Enjoy the Experience: Remember, this is as much about seeing if the school is right for you as it is about them assessing your fit.
By being professional, proactive, and compassionate, you’ll leave a lasting impression. Best of luck with your trial day!
