Do You See Me? Reflections from a Former SEN Teaching Assistant.

Every year, Learning Disability Week gives us a moment to pause, reflect and most importantly, listen. In 2026, the week runs from Monday 15th June to Sunday 21st June, and this year’s theme: ‘Do You See Me?’ feels more powerful than ever. 

At its core, this campaign is about visibility. It asks an important question: are people with learning disabilities truly seen, heard, included and valued in everyday life? 

Why This Week Matters

Learning Disability Week, led by Mencap (the UK’s largest charity supporting people with a learning disability) shines a spotlight on the lived experiences of individuals who are too often overlooked. It brings together communities, schools, workplaces, and policymakers to challenge stereotypes and celebrate the contributions people with a learning disability make across society.

But it’s not just about celebration, it’s about change.

Working in SEN Education: Challenging, but Incredibly Rewarding

Before working in marketing, I spent time as a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant, and it’s an experience that still shapes how I see both education and inclusion today.

Working in SEN isn’t always easy. It requires patience, adaptability, resilience and a genuine commitment to understanding each child as an individual. No two days are the same, and progress doesn’t always follow a straight line. There are challenges; whether that’s supporting behaviour, communication needs, or helping pupils navigate a world that doesn’t always cater to them.

But it’s also one of the most rewarding roles you can step into. 

As a TA, I had the privilege of nurturing and embracing learning differences every single day. I saw firsthand how the right support, environment and encouragement can make a real difference, not just in academic progress, but in confidence, independence and wellbeing. 

Those small wins: speaking up in class, completing a task independently, participating in group work, are all huge milestones. And being part of that journey is something that stays with you. 

Why Schools Need the Right People

Working with children with additional needs requires empathy, creativity and a willingness to see the world differently. It’s about recognising that every child communicates, learns and experiences things in their own way, and adjusting your approach to meet them where they are. 

For those considering a role in SEN education, Learning Disability Week is a significant reminder of why this work matters. Yes, it can be demanding, but it’s also fulfilling and genuinely life-changing, both for the children and for you. 

Embracing Difference, Not ‘Fixing’ It

Learning differences are not something to fix, they are something to support and celebrate.

Progress doesn’t always look the same, and it doesn’t need to. Whether it’s building communication and social skills, or independence, every achievement matters. 

Learning Disability Week is about recognising those moments and making sure they are seen, not just within classrooms, but across our wider communities and workplaces too. 

Looking Forward

Now working in marketing, particularly within education recruitment, I see just how important it is to highlight the value of roles in SEN. 

Behind every job listing is an opportunity to change a child’s experience of education. The people we place in schools aren’t just filling vacancies, they are providing support, encouragement and stability for young people who need it most. 

Learning Disability Week reminds us that inclusion isn’t just value, it’s a responsibility. It is about more than awareness, but also recognition, inclusion and respect. 

From my time as a Teaching Assistant, I’ve seen firsthand the difference it makes when someone feels understood and supported. That’s something we can all contribute to, especially in education. 

Listen to stories. Share voices. Challenge assumptions.

And most importantly ask yourself: ‘Do We Really See’ Everyone in Our Community? 

If this resonated with you, browse our job vacancies here.If you would like to find out more about working in schools, read our Be a Teacher page.