At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with communication needs in a nurturing learning environment.
- Company: Exciting new SEND provision opening in September 2026.
- Benefits: Join a dedicated team and make a real difference in children's lives.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a founding team and help shape an inclusive community.
- Qualifications: Enthusiastic, caring, and motivated individuals with a passion for education.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
In September 2026 we are thrilled to be opening The Rockpool— our specialist SEND provision for up to 12 Key Stage 1 children with Communication and Interaction needs, including autism spectrum disorder. We are seeking an enthusiastic, caring and motivated Teaching Assistant to join the founding team of this exciting new provision. This is a wonderful opportunity to help create a nurturing and inclusive environment where children feel safe, understood and inspired to achieve their full potential.
As a patient, positive and committed practitioner you will:
- Help create a calm, safe and stimulating learning environment where every child feels valued and supported
- Build warm and trusting relationships that help children develop confidence, communication and independence
- Work closely with teachers and the SENDCo to support children’s individual learning, communication and emotional regulation needs
- Use visual supports, structured routines and communication-friendly strategies to support pupils to access learning activities successfully and develop self-help, independence and life skills.
- Contribute to observations and records of pupil progress
- Support inclusion opportunities within the wider school community
- Show flexibility, teamwork and a willingness to learn as part of a dedicated and supportive team
- Ensure every day counts for every child
Specialist SEND Unit Teaching Assistant in Ipswich employer: The Willows Primary School
Joining The Rockpool as a Specialist SEND Unit Teaching Assistant offers a unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering team dedicated to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment for children with Communication and Interaction needs. Our supportive work culture prioritises collaboration, professional development, and the well-being of both staff and students, ensuring that every team member can grow and thrive in their role while making a meaningful impact on young lives.
Contact Details:
The Willows Primary School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist SEND Unit Teaching Assistant in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at The Rockpool or similar SEND provisions. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When we get the chance to meet, let our enthusiasm for supporting children with SEND shine through. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight our commitment to creating inclusive environments.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on strategies for communication and emotional regulation. We want to demonstrate our knowledge of visual supports and structured routines that can help children thrive.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed and shows we’re serious about joining the team at The Rockpool.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist SEND Unit Teaching Assistant in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children, especially those with SEND needs. Share any relevant experiences or personal stories that highlight your commitment to creating a nurturing environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and qualities we’re looking for in a Teaching Assistant. Mention how you can contribute to building warm relationships and supporting children's independence.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and how they relate to the role, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Willows Primary School
✨Know Your SEND Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), especially around communication and interaction needs. Familiarise yourself with autism spectrum disorder and how it affects learning. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared to support the children effectively.
✨Show Your Caring Side
During the interview, share specific examples of how you've built trusting relationships with children in the past. Talk about times when you've helped a child feel safe and valued. This role is all about nurturing, so let your passion for supporting children shine through!
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Highlight your experience working collaboratively with teachers and other professionals. Discuss how you’ve contributed to a team environment in previous roles. The interviewers will be looking for someone who can work well within a dedicated team, so make sure to emphasise your teamwork skills.
✨Be Ready to Adapt
Prepare to discuss how you would use visual supports and structured routines to help children access learning. Think of practical strategies you could implement and be ready to share them. Showing flexibility and a willingness to learn will demonstrate that you’re the right fit for this exciting new provision.
