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- Tasks: Support primary-aged pupils with diverse needs through tailored, engaging activities.
- Company: Join a welcoming specialist SEN primary school in Waterlooville.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free training, and ongoing support from dedicated consultants.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Level 2/3 qualification in childcare or relevant SEN experience required.
- Other info: Flexible opportunities available for ad-hoc supply staff.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 35000 £ per year.
Prospero Teaching is seeking calm, patient, and resilient Special School Support Assistants (SSSAs) to join a specialist SEN primary school in Waterlooville. The school supports pupils across EYFS and primary age ranges with a variety of additional needs, including autism, communication difficulties, learning disabilities, sensory needs, complex needs, and barriers to engaging with learning.
The school is also welcoming applications from ad-hoc supply staff who are available for day-to-day, short-term, and long-term cover, offering flexible opportunities for those seeking varied work within a supportive SEN environment. This is a highly rewarding opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting younger children who require consistent, nurturing, and relationship-based support to thrive both emotionally and academically.
Responsibilities- 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
- Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and pastoral staff to ensure holistic, child-centred support
- Location: Waterlooville
- Position: Special School Support Assistant (SSSA)
- Start Date: ASAP
- Contract Type: 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
- Working Hours: 08:30 - 15:30
- Pay Rate: From £13.96 per hour
To be considered, you must:
- Have the Right to Work in the UK
- 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
- Access to our specialist in-house Training & Development Team
- Ongoing support from a dedicated SEN consultant
- A welcoming primary school environment with strong staff culture and progression opportunities
Know someone who would thrive in a specialist SEN setting? You can earn a referral bonus for every successful recommendation through our Refer a Friend scheme (T&Cs apply).
Special School Support Assistants - Waterlooville employer: Prospero Teaching
Contact Detail:
Prospero Teaching Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special School Support Assistants - Waterlooville
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with SEN. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local SEN events or workshops. Not only will you learn more about the field, but you'll also meet potential employers and other professionals who share your passion for supporting children with additional needs.
✨Tip Number 3
When you get an interview, be ready to showcase your experience with specific examples. Talk about how you've supported children with various needs in the past, and demonstrate your calm and patient approach to challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We have loads of opportunities for Special School Support Assistants, and applying directly can help you stand out. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Special School Support Assistants - Waterlooville
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience and skills that match the role of a Special School Support Assistant. We want to see how your background aligns with supporting children with additional needs.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through! Share any relevant experiences or stories that demonstrate your commitment to nurturing and supporting young learners in a SEN environment.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. Highlight key points that showcase your qualifications and suitability for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this rewarding opportunity in Waterlooville!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospero Teaching
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of special educational needs (SEN) before the interview. Understand the different types of needs, like autism and communication difficulties, and be ready to discuss how you can support children with these challenges.
✨Show Your Patience and Resilience
During the interview, demonstrate your calm and patient nature. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed challenging situations or supported children who needed extra help. This will show that you have the right mindset for the role.
✨Engagement Strategies are Key
Be prepared to talk about how you would encourage engagement through play-based and creative activities. Think of specific examples or ideas you could bring to the classroom that would help children with learning disabilities or emotional dysregulation feel more involved.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your ability to build trusting relationships with pupils. Discuss how you would use clear and consistent communication to create a stable environment for children. This is crucial in a special school setting, so make sure to convey your commitment to nurturing these connections.
