Special Teaching Assistant

Special Teaching Assistant

Full-Time 25185 - 25989 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Suffolk County Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs in a dynamic learning environment.
  • Company: Chalk Hill Academy, a supportive and inclusive educational institution.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, wellbeing initiatives, and career progression opportunities.
  • Other info: Join a community that values diversity and promotes inclusive education.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your skills in education.
  • Qualifications: Experience with children, empathy, patience, and strong communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 25185 - 25989 £ per year.

Chalk Hill Academy

Address: Cats Lane, Great Cornard, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2SF

Salary: £25,185 - £25,989 pro rata (£19,239 - £19,853 per annum)

Hours: Part time, 33 hours and 20 minutes per week

Contract: Permanent, required from September 2026

Reference: 5157

*Site relocating to Bury St Edmunds in Spring 2027

This role supports students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs who also have co-occurring Autistic Spectrum Differences. Working closely with teachers, you will provide targeted support across curriculum activities and help students develop confidence, independence and skills to participate fully in school and community life.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist with lesson preparation.
  • Support students during learning activities across all curriculum subjects (English, mathematics, science).
  • Work with small groups or individuals to encourage engagement and progress.
  • Monitor student development through observation and record‑keeping.
  • Build positive, professional relationships that reflect the school’s values.
  • Support students during less structured times (lunchtimes, transitions) and promote social skills, wellbeing and safety.

Qualifications:

  • Experience working with children or young people, ideally within a SEND setting.
  • Empathy, patience and excellent communication skills.
  • Commitment to inclusive education and promoting self‑respect, confidence and independence.

Benefits:

  • Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
  • Family-friendly policies and flexible working.
  • Access to the Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Employee wellbeing initiatives.
  • Free parking.
  • Company events.
  • Various membership and discount schemes.
  • Learning and development opportunities, including staff development days.
  • Funded subject course development for your role.
  • Staff communities, including EDI and neurodiverse communities.
  • Career progression opportunities.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, gender, gender reassignment, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age in accordance with the Equality Act 2010. All data will be processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018.

Special Teaching Assistant employer: Suffolk County Council

Chalk Hill Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and professional growth of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where inclusivity and collaboration thrive. With flexible working arrangements, access to comprehensive employee benefits, and dedicated development opportunities, you will be empowered to make a meaningful impact on students with special educational needs in a nurturing environment. As we prepare for our relocation to Bury St Edmunds, you will also enjoy the advantages of a vibrant community and enhanced facilities.

Suffolk County Council

Contact Details:

Suffolk County Council Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Special Teaching Assistant

Empathy
Patience
Excellent Communication Skills
Experience with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)
Ability to Support Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs
Lesson Preparation
Monitoring Student Development