Special School Support Assistants

Special School Support Assistants focuses on providing tailored support to primary‑aged pupils with learning disabilities, autism, sensory needs, or communication difficulties.

What the role involves

• Providing tailored support to primary‑aged pupils with learning disabilities, autism, sensory needs, or communication difficulties.
• Supporting children who may experience anxiety, emotional dysregulation, or challenges with transitions and routines.
• Encouraging engagement through play‑based, creative, therapeutic, and differentiated learning activities.
• Promoting emotional wellbeing, safety, and positive behaviour throughout the school day.
• Supporting pupils with communication, emotional regulation, social interaction, and developing independence.
• Building trusting, stable relationships using clear, calm, and consistent communication.

Skills and requirements

• Hold an enhanced child‑barred list DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply).
• Provide professional references covering the last 24 months.
• Hold a Level 2/3 qualification in childcare, education, health & social care, or have relevant SEN experience.
• Free accredited CPD, including safeguarding, behaviour management, and de‑escalation.

Confirmed role details

• Position: Special School Support Assistant (SSSA).
• Full‑time with temp‑to‑perm pathways available, plus opportunities for ad‑hoc supply staff to cover day‑to‑day, short‑term, and long‑term requirements.