Special School Support Assistant

About the role

The specialist all‑through SEN school in Chichester is looking for calm, patient and resilient Support Assistants to join a dedicated team. You will work with children and young people aged 2‑19 who have complex needs such as autism, severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties and sensory processing differences.

Key responsibilities

• Provide personalised support to pupils with autism, sensory needs, communication differences, PMLD, SLD and other complex learning profiles.
• Assist children who experience anxiety, emotional dysregulation, sensory overload or difficulties with transitions, routines and social interaction.
• Encourage engagement through practical, creative and therapeutic activities across early years, primary and secondary stages.
• Promote emotional wellbeing, safety and positive behaviour throughout the school day.
• Support pupils in communication, emotional regulation, social understanding, independence and life‑skills development.
• Build trusting, consistent relationships using calm, clear and supportive communication.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, pastoral teams and external professionals to deliver holistic, person‑centred support.

Required profile

• Right to work in the UK.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one).
• Professional references covering the last 24 months.
• Level 2/3 qualification in childcare, education or health & social care, or relevant SEN experience.

Required skills

What we offer

• Free accredited CPD, including safeguarding, behaviour support and de‑escalation.
• Access to an in‑house Training & Development team.
• Ongoing support from a dedicated SEN consultant.
• Full‑time contract with temp‑to‑perm pathways and ad‑hoc supply opportunities.