Job Description

Job Title: Special Needs Assistant
Location: Essex
Contract Type: Term Time Only - Temp to Perm
Salary: 85- 100 per day

Monday- Friday 8:30-3:30pm

About the Role:
We are seeking a compassionate and an experienced Special Needs Assistant, supporting primary and secondary-aged children within an educational setting. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of children with diverse learning needs by fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one or small-group support to children with special educational needs (SEN).
• Assist with classroom activities, ensuring that children can fully engage in lessons.
• Support the development of life skills, social interaction, and independence.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop and implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
• Manage challenging behaviour with empathy and positive reinforcement strategies.
• Maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all children.
• Assist with physical care tasks where necessary, such as mobility support or personal hygiene.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience supporting children within an educational setting, ideally in a primary or secondary school.
• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by children with special educational needs, including autism, ADHD, and physical or learning disabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with children, families, and colleagues.
• A patient, empathetic, and proactive approach to meeting the needs of children with SEN.

Desirable Skills:

• Training in specific SEN interventions or strategies (e.g., Makaton, PECS, Team Teach).
• Experience using assistive technologies to support learning.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures.

Interviewing ASAP to start in January 2025.