At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with complex SEND needs through engaging, child-centred learning experiences.
- Company: Join Sendsory, a specialist Alternative Provision dedicated to nurturing children aged 4-11.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, six training days per year, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Flexible hours during term time only, with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: Experience with SEND and strong communication skills are essential; training provided for safeguarding.
The predicted salary is between 23970 - 28598 £ per year.
You will support the daily delivery of our Therapeutic Curriculum, working under the direction of the Therapeutic Teacher to provide high‑quality, child‑centred learning experiences for children with complex SEND needs. You will support the implementation of EHCP outcomes, contribute to AQA Unit Award Scheme evidence and help children develop life skills, communication, emotional regulation and independence through structured routines, therapeutic interaction and consistent relational support.
In this role, you will:
- Deliver engaging, child‑centred 1:1 and small group sessions under the direction of the Therapeutic Teacher, supporting curriculum delivery.
- Implement EHCP outcomes for individual pupils within sessions, ensuring personalised targets are embedded in daily practice.
- Support pupils to achieve AQA Unit Award Scheme outcomes through structured learning activities and recording of progress.
- Promote life skills development, social communication, emotional regulation and independence through daily routines and guided learning experiences.
- Encourage confidence, self‑help skills, problem‑solving and positive peer interaction to support preparation for everyday life and future learning; provide personal care for children where required, always maintaining dignity, privacy and respect.
- Prepare, set up and reset therapeutic learning environments, ensuring spaces are safe, calm and ready for use.
- Support children during breakfast and lunch routines, promoting independence, communication and positive social interaction.
- Use trauma‑informed and restorative approaches to actively de‑escalate behaviour in line with Behaviour in Education expectations and training.
- Build consistent, positive and trusting relationships with pupils, modelling emotional regulation, clear boundaries and appropriate behaviour.
- Record and report behaviour incidents, safeguarding concerns and wellbeing observations in line with organisational procedures.
- Support the implementation of therapeutic strategies that promote emotional safety, predictability and relational security.
- Attend safeguarding and behaviour briefings and contribute to reflective team discussions and solution‑focused planning.
- Undertake additional duties as directed by the Therapeutic Teacher, including preparing resources, adapting materials, creating visuals, laminating and supporting classroom organisation.
- Support emotional regulation and resilience using an attachment‑aware approach, recognising triggers and responding with consistent, supportive strategies that help children feel safe and understood.
You will need:
- Experience working with children with SEND, SEMH, ASD, ADHD or trauma‑related needs.
- A strong understanding of trauma‑informed, attachment‑aware and restorative approaches.
- Experience or confidence in supporting learning in 1:1 and small group settings.
- The ability to build positive, consistent relationships with children with complex needs and confidence in supporting behaviour using calm, de‑escalation strategies.
- A willingness to support personal care needs where required and good communication skills, with the ability to work as part of a team under direction.
- An understanding of safeguarding responsibilities (training can be provided), flexibility, resilience and a proactive approach to supporting daily provision.
- A commitment to supporting children to develop independence, confidence and emotional regulation.
- QTS is not required for this role; applications are welcome from experienced support staff and those with relevant lived or professional experience.
- Experience using communication tools such as Makaton, PECS or visual supports is desirable.
About Sendsory
Sendsory is a specialist Alternative Provision supporting children aged 4–11 with SEND. Our Therapeutic Curriculum helps children regulate emotions, develop communication and social skills and build confidence in a nurturing, structured environment. We support children who are awaiting school placement, at risk of or who have experienced permanent exclusion, and those disengaging from mainstream education.
What we offer
At Sendsory, you’ll join a supportive, child‑focused team, receive six training days per year and benefit from a competitive salary while making a meaningful difference to children with SEND.
Safeguarding and Equality
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. Sendsory is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Sendsory welcomes applications from men as they are currently under‑represented in this role.
SEND Assistant in Ipswich employer: Suffolk County Council
At Sendsory, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our SEND Assistants. Located in Ipswich, our team benefits from ongoing professional development with six training days annually, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children with complex needs. Join us to be part of a child-centred culture that values emotional safety, collaboration, and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SEND Assistant in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the SEND community, attend local events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to SEND roles. Think about your experiences and how they align with the job description. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for working with children with SEND during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've supported their learning and emotional needs. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission at Sendsory.
We think you need these skills to ace SEND Assistant in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEND and how it aligns with our Therapeutic Curriculum. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to the table!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for working with children with complex needs shine through! Share specific examples of how you've supported emotional regulation or independence in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your relevant experience and skills at a glance.
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 exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of complex SEND needs, including SEMH, ASD, and ADHD. Be ready to discuss how you've supported children with these needs in the past, and think about specific examples that showcase your understanding of trauma-informed and attachment-aware approaches.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
During the interview, highlight your ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children. Share stories that demonstrate how you've successfully engaged with pupils, especially in 1:1 or small group settings, and how you've used de-escalation strategies to manage behaviour.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting a child during a challenging moment or implementing EHCP outcomes. Think through some scenarios beforehand and be ready to explain your thought process and actions clearly.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Flexibility
Sendsory values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've adapted to different roles or responsibilities in previous positions, and express your willingness to support personal care needs and contribute to the overall classroom environment.
