If you’re new to the world of education or considering a role supporting children with additional needs, you may be wondering: What is SEN support?
What is SEN Support?
SEN Support is what schools (and other similar settings) use to find and meet the needs of children with special educational needs (SEN). The support given to each individual will vary – it is not a case of “one size fits all”.
Who is SEN Support For?
SEN support is provided to children who may be struggling in school because of a learning difficulty or disability. These needs might affect their:
- Ability to concentrate or learn at the same pace as their peers
- Communication and interaction with others
- Behaviour or emotional wellbeing
- Physical or sensory challenges
- Ability to access the curriculum without extra help
This support is not just for children with formal diagnoses—any child who requires extra help to thrive in school can receive SEN support.
What is SEN Support in Practice?
SEN support can look different for each child depending on their specific needs. Examples of SEN support in schools include:
- One-to-one support in the classroom
- Help with personal care or mobility
- Extra time or breaks during tasks
- Specialised resources or equipment
- Support with communication or behaviour
- Assistance during breaks, lunchtimes, or transitions between activities
The goal is always to remove barriers to learning and help the child feel safe, included, and supported in their school environment.
How is SEN Support Delivered?
Schools follow a process known as the “Graduated Approach” to deliver SEN support. This involves four key stages:
- Assess – Understanding the child’s needs
- Plan – Agreeing what support is needed and how it will be delivered
- Do – Putting the support in place
- Review – Checking how well the support is working and making adjustments if needed
Teachers often work closely with SENCOs (Special Educational Needs Coordinators), support staff, and sometimes external professionals such as speech and language therapists or educational psychologists.
Is SEN Support the Same as Teaching?
No. SEN support is not a teaching role. While teachers plan and deliver lessons, SEN support staff work alongside them to provide practical, hands-on assistance that helps students manage day-to-day tasks and stay engaged in learning.
Many SEN schools rely on support staff who specialise in care, supervision, and one-to-one assistance—especially for children with more complex needs.
Interested in Working in SEN Support?
If you’re patient, caring, and passionate about helping others, a role in SEN support could be incredibly rewarding.
At ASENEA, we work with SEN schools across West Yorkshire to provide reliable, compassionate support staff who are ready to make a difference. Our team members aren’t teachers—they’re there to help children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
We offer:
- Flexible, local shifts:
We understand that life doesn’t always follow a fixed schedule. That’s why we offer complete flexibility, allowing you to choose when and where you work. Whether you’re looking for regular placements or occasional shifts, we have roles available in SEN schools close to home. - The option of next-day payments:
You work hard, and you shouldn’t have to wait to be paid. ASENEA offers competitive hourly rates and a free next-day payment service, so your earnings are in your account when you need them—no waiting, no hassle. - Free, ongoing training
We believe in supporting our staff just as much as they support students. That’s why we provide free, annually updated training, helping you stay confident and prepared for the classroom—especially in areas like personal care, behaviour support, and safeguarding. - Supportive, friendly team
From your first enquiry to your first shift and beyond, you’ll be supported by a team that truly cares. We’re available 7 days a week, from 7am to 7.30pm, ready to answer questions, offer advice, or just check in to see how things are going. - A chance to make a real impact every day:
This isn’t just another job. As an SEN support worker, you’ll be making a positive, lasting impact on the lives of children who need your help the most. Every shift is a chance to help a student feel safe, confident, and supported.
To apply with ASENEA, you must have at least three months of experience working or volunteering in an SEN/SEND school setting.
Conclusion: What is SEN Support
SEN support plays a vital role in helping children with additional needs succeed at school—and for those providing that support, the work is incredibly meaningful. Whether you’re assisting with personal care, offering one-to-one support, or simply helping a child feel safe and included, your presence can make all the difference.
If you have experience in an SEN school and are looking for flexible, rewarding work, ASENEA is here to help you find the right opportunities.