At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with special educational needs in a nurturing environment.
- Company: The Downs CE Primary School, a caring and inclusive community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a welcoming team and enjoy opportunities for growth and training.
- Why this job: Make a genuine difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 22000 £ per year.
We are seeking an enthusiastic, compassionate and dedicated Special Educational Needs Support Assistant (SENSA) to join our Specialist Resource Provision (SRP) supporting pupils with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Salary: KSB (Full Time Equivalent £26,822)
Hours: 27.5 hours per week, Term Time Only
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
Start Date: 1st September 2026
This is an exciting opportunity to work within a highly supportive team, helping children overcome barriers to learning and thrive both academically and socially. Working closely with the Lead SRP Teacher, SENCo and wider school staff, the successful candidate will support the delivery of high-quality provision for pupils accessing the SRP and mainstream classroom environments. You will help pupils develop confidence, independence and positive learning behaviours while ensuring they are fully included in school life.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience of supporting children with SEND, particularly pupils with ASD and/or SLCN
- Is patient, calm, nurturing and passionate about helping children succeed
- Has excellent communication and interpersonal skills and enjoys working as part of a team
- Can build positive relationships with children, families and professionals
- Is committed to inclusion and ensuring all pupils can access learning and wider opportunities
- Holds GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)
The following would be desirable:
- A Level 2 or Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification (or willingness to undertake training)
- Experience of communication approaches such as Makaton, PECS, visual timetables or sensory supports
- Knowledge of SEND interventions and therapeutic approaches
- First Aid training or experience supporting children with medical needs
At The Downs CE Primary School, we can offer:
- A welcoming, caring and supportive school community rooted in Christian values
- Enthusiastic children who are eager to learn
- A dedicated and experienced staff team
- High-quality professional development opportunities, including SEND-specific training
- The opportunity to make a genuine and lasting difference to children’s lives
We warmly welcome visits to the school and encourage prospective applicants to come and see our caring and inclusive environment in action. For further information or to arrange a visit, please contact the school office on 01304 372486 or email secretary@downs.kent.sch.uk.
The Downs CE Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to satisfactory references, enhanced DBS clearance and all relevant pre-employment checks.
SRP Special Educational Needs Support Assistant (SENSA) - Part-time in Deal employer: Sandwich Infant
At The Downs CE Primary School, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a nurturing and inclusive environment where dedicated professionals can thrive. Our supportive team is committed to the growth of both staff and students, providing high-quality professional development opportunities tailored to Special Educational Needs. With a focus on Christian values and a welcoming community, you will have the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance during term time.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SRP Special Educational Needs Support Assistant (SENSA) - Part-time in Deal
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school before applying! Visit the Downs CE Primary School, chat with staff, and see the environment. This shows your genuine interest and helps you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about real-life examples of how you've supported children with SEND. We want to hear your stories and how you’ve made a difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in education.
We think you need these skills to ace SRP Special Educational Needs Support Assistant (SENSA) - Part-time in Deal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with SEND shine through. We want to see your genuine commitment to helping pupils with ASD and SLCN thrive in their learning environments.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in supporting children with special educational needs. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back on sharing those specific examples!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use simple language and structure your thoughts well. This will help us understand your qualifications and passion without any confusion.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a difference in children's lives!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwich Infant
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the specific needs of pupils with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Familiarise yourself with relevant strategies and interventions, like Makaton or PECS, so you can discuss how you would apply these in your role.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with Special Educational Needs shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your dedication to helping children succeed and how you’ve made a difference in their lives.
✨Team Player Vibes
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and other professionals. Be ready to discuss examples of how you've built positive relationships in previous roles, as this is crucial for creating an inclusive environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the school’s approach to inclusion and support for SEND pupils. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the school’s values align with yours.
