Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with special needs in their learning and personal care.
- Company: Kingsdown School, part of SEN Trust Southend, dedicated to special education.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract, paid leave, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with special needs.
- Qualifications: GCSE Grade C in Maths and English; experience in Special Education preferred.
- Other info: Join a happy team committed to safeguarding and promoting pupil welfare.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Kingsdown is a special school and is part of a Multi Academy Trust known as SEN Trust Southend. It is for pupils aged 3-14 years who have severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties and/or physical disabilities and associated learning difficulties.
We are looking to appoint a Special Support Assistant to start as soon as possible. The position is for 31.05 hours per week [8.45am - 3.45pm], term time only (39 weeks per year plus 4.6 weeks annual paid leave plus 2 weeks statutory holidays). This post is fixed term for 1 year.
We are looking for an enthusiastic, positive and resilient colleague to join our happy team who is committed to educating our children to reach their full potential. In addition, you must be willing to assist with all the pupils' personal care needs.
The ideal candidate will have Special Education experience, a minimum GCSE Grade C (or equivalent) in Maths and English and preferably a qualification in Child Care.
Kingsdown School is committed to safer recruitment in order to safeguard and promote the welfare of our pupils, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undertake pre-employment checks which will include References, Health, Right to Work in UK and DBS check.
Closing date: Midday 25th February 2026
Interviews: 5th March 2026
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Special Support Assistant in Colchester employer: Shorefields
Contact Detail:
Shorefields Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Support Assistant in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those who work with special needs. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Kingsdown School and its values. Show us that you’re not just passionate about supporting children but also align with our mission to help them reach their full potential.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to special education. Think about scenarios where you’ve made a difference in a child’s life and be ready to share those stories with us.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Special Support Assistant in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for supporting children with special needs shine through. We want to see your commitment to helping them reach their full potential!
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in special education or child care. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role of a Special Support Assistant.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your skills and experiences are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Special Support Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of pupils with severe learning difficulties and physical disabilities. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Bring your positive energy to the interview! Share examples of how you've supported children in the past, especially those with special educational needs. Your enthusiasm for helping children reach their full potential will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Personal Care Questions
Since the role involves assisting with personal care needs, be ready to discuss your approach to this aspect of the job. Think about how you would handle sensitive situations and ensure the dignity and comfort of the pupils.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the school's approach to supporting staff development or how they foster a positive environment for both pupils and staff. This shows your genuine interest in being part of their team.
