The Bridge School
Address: Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3ND
Salary: £27,254 - £29,540 pro rata (actual £21,556 - £23,365 per annum)
Hours: 35 hours per week, 38 weeks per year
Contract: Permanent, required from 1 September 2026
Reference: 5203
This is an exciting opportunity to join a rapidly improving special school, which became part of Unity Schools Partnership in June 2019. We are seeking a compassionate, organised and proactive Welfare and Family Liaison Support Assistant to work as part of our Administrative and Pastoral team.
This role will play an important part in strengthening relationships between school, families and external agencies, supporting pupil wellbeing, engagement and access to appropriate support.
The Bridge Special School is a highly regarded setting for children and young people aged 4–18 with a wide range of communication, physical and complex learning needs. Many pupils are on the autistic spectrum. The school serves Ipswich and surrounding areas and operates over multiple sites.
The school is part of Unity Schools Partnership, a forward-thinking multi-academy trust committed to collaboration and inclusion, with a growing network of special schools across Suffolk and beyond.
The role would suit someone with:
strong interpersonal and communication skills, with empathy and sensitivity when working with families
excellent organisation skills and the ability to manage their own workload effectively
good literacy and IT skills, with the ability to maintain accurate records and reports
confidence working collaboratively within a multi-agency environment
experience, or a strong interest, in pastoral care, family support, safeguarding or working with children with additional needs.
If you feel you could be successful in this post, we would welcome your application—even if you do not meet every requirement.
Unity Schools Partnership is a family of 40 schools across Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire (and Romford in East London). Working through geographical hubs, we collaborate to deliver the highest standards of education through ethical leadership, evidence-informed practice and a shared ambition to transform lives—shaped by our values of integrity, inclusion and kindness.
To find out more
For more information, to arrange a visit, or for an informal discussion, please contact Louise Parkinson, Deputy Headteacher/DSL, on: admin@thebridgeschool.org.ukor 01473 556200.
Alternatively, please download the Job Description (pdf) and Information Pack (pdf).
How to apply
To apply, please visit our website.
Closing date: 9am, 29 June 2026
Interview date: 8 July 2026
Please note: We may interview as applications are received and may appoint before the closing date. Applications must be submitted online via our careers website before the deadline, so we encourage early applications and advise checking the job details on our site.
In line with safer recruitment, we cannot accept CVs. Incomplete application forms may result in candidates not being shortlisted.
Unity Schools Partnership is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. All successful candidates will be subject to rigorous pre employment checks, including an enhanced DBS. We are also committed to equality, diversity and fair recruitment practices, and we oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination.
We value inclusive working practices and diverse teams. If you wish to work part time or as a job share, we will accommodate this wherever possible. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups.
