Complex Needs Support Assistant

GSL Education; Poole; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Poole seeks a Complex Needs Support Assistant. This crucial role involves providing personalized support to students with Special Educational Needs, implementing strategies with teachers, and creating inclusive environments. Join a supportive team focused on making a significant difference in students' lives.

Benefits

Supportive culture

Meaningful work with young people

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Experience with children or young people with complex needs preferred.
• Calm and patient approach to support is necessary.
• Relevant qualifications or training are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with learning, communication, and emotional regulation.
• Help with personal care and mobility needs where required.
• Develop relationships to foster confidence and engagement.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Empathy

Proactivity

Education

Qualifications in SEN or care

Job description

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Join Our Team as a Complex Needs Support Assistant – Poole

Location: Poole
Salary: £13.68 – £16.12 per hour (based on experience)
Contract: Full-time / Permanent
Start Date: Immediate or September 2025

Are you someone who thrives on helping others overcome challenges and reach their full potential?

We’re looking for a dedicated Complex Needs Support Assistant to join a specialist school in Poole, where every day is an opportunity to make a real difference.

About the school
The school is an education setting based for 16 – 25+ years old with Special Educational Needs. It is based on 350 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside. The school operate enterprise activities and vocational teaching methods to bridge the gap between education and employment for young people and adults with SEN in Dorset and the local area. The school focuses on vocations like horticulture, agriculture, equine skills and animal care as well as many more, to enrich the lives and education of its pupils.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Complex Needs Support Assistant, you’ll be a key part of a multidisciplinary team, helping students access learning and develop independence. Your role will involve:

• Providing Personalised Support: Assist students with their learning, communication, and emotional regulation through structured and creative approaches.
• Supporting Daily Routines: Help with personal care and mobility needs where required, always promoting dignity and respect.
• Implementing Strategies: Work alongside therapists and teachers to deliver tailored support plans and interventions.
• Building Trust: Develop strong, positive relationships with students to foster confidence and engagement.
• Tracking Progress: Keep detailed records of student development and contribute to planning and review meetings.
• Creating a Safe Space: Promote a calm, inclusive, and respectful environment where every student can thrive.

What We’re Looking in Complex Needs Support Assistant

We welcome applications from individuals who are compassionate, adaptable, and committed to inclusive education. Ideally, you will have:

• Experience working with children or young people with complex or additional needs.
• A calm, patient, and empathetic approach to support.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• A proactive attitude and the ability to adapt to changing situations.
• A UK driving licence (desirable but not essential).
• Relevant qualifications or training in SEN, care, or therapeutic support (advantageous).

Why This Role Could Be Perfect for You

• Start When You’re Ready: Whether you’re available now or in September, we’re happy to work around your schedule.
• Supportive Culture: Join a team that values collaboration, wellbeing, and professional growth.
• Specialist Environment: Work in a setting designed to meet the needs of students with complex profiles.
• Meaningful Work: Be part of a journey that helps young people build confidence, skills, and brighter futures.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection and that successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks; including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service, or completing an application for a new check.

As an ethical, inclusive, and independent recruitment agency, GSL education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff in schools across the UK.

Interested in making a difference in Poole?
Click ‘apply now’ to send us your CV, and one of our friendly consultants will be in touch to discuss the next steps.