Job Title: Support Assistant - Special Needs Schools (Career Change Opportunity)
Location: Sheffield
Day Rate: £90-100 per day
Start Date: ASAP
About Us:
Protocol Education are a leading recruitment agency working with schools across the UK. We are currently working with a school that is a welcoming, inclusive, and dedicated educational setting for children with special educational needs (SEN). The school is committed to creating a nurturing environment that helps students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. As part of our ongoing efforts to support the schools expanding team, we are excited to offer a unique opportunity for individuals with a background in care to transition into the education sector as Support Assistants in our Special Needs Schools.
The Role:
This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with a background in care who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children with special needs. As a Support Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting students with a range of needs, including learning disabilities, autism, and physical disabilities, within a classroom setting. You will work closely with teachers and other support staff to provide tailored assistance that helps students succeed academically and develop important life skills.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide one-to-one and small group support to students with special needs in the classroom.
- Assist with implementing Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and personalised learning strategies.
- Support students in developing social, emotional, and practical life skills.
- Help manage and support students’ behaviour using positive reinforcement and appropriate interventions.
- Assist students with personal care, mobility, and any other specific needs as required.
- Foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment.
- Collaborate with teachers, SENCO, and other staff to ensure effective learning experiences.
- Provide regular feedback on student progress to the teaching team.
- Attend regular training and development opportunities to enhance your skills in education and special needs support.
Key Requirements:
- Previous experience in a care role, supporting individuals with physical or learning disabilities (preferred but not essential).
- A genuine desire to work with children and young people with special educational needs.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with students, staff, and parents.
- Patience, empathy, and a positive, solution-focused attitude.
- A willingness to learn and develop new skills in education.
- A flexible and adaptable approach to working in a classroom environment.
- A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- A relevant qualification (such as NVQ in Health and Social Care or equivalent) is desirable, but not essential.
Why Join Us:
- The opportunity to transition into a rewarding career in education.
- A supportive and dynamic working environment.
- Training and professional development to help you succeed in your new career path.
- A chance to make a positive impact on the lives of children with special needs.
- A fulfilling role with opportunities for career progression within the education sector.