Individual Needs Assistant

Nest; Bracklesham; On-site; GBP 14,000 - 18,000; Part time

Job summary

The Nest at Chailey St Peter's CE Primary School is seeking an Individual Needs Assistant to support up to 12 children with autism. You will help provide a calm, nurturing learning environment and tailor activities to each child's goals. This role offers part-time, term-time hours with pro rata pay.

You will work closely with teachers and families, fostering inclusion and promoting confidence, independence and positive behaviour in a supportive school community.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with additional needs.
• Ability to adapt to individual learning needs.
• Strong communication with children, families and staff.
• Willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Respect for inclusive education and school ethos.

Responsibilities

• Support children with their individual learning and development needs.
• Assist with communication, emotional and social development.
• Support children during playtimes, lunchtimes and activities.
• Collaborate with teachers and support staff to provide personalised learning.

Skills

Empathy

Patience

Communication

Teamwork

Flexibility

Willingness to learn

Christian ethos alignment

Job description

Would you like to make a real difference to a child's school experience? An exciting opportunity has arisen for a caring, enthusiastic and patient Individual Needs Assistant to join our wonderful team at The Nest, our newly opened autism facility at Chailey St Peter's CE Primary School, part of the Bluebell Federation. Opened at Easter 2026, The Nest is a calm, nurturing and homely environment for up to 12 children with autism. It is a very special place where children are supported to grow in confidence, develop their independence, feel valued and truly belong. Our children are at the heart of everything we do, and we are looking for someone who shares our passion for helping every child achieve their potential, however big or small their steps may be. About the role Hours: 8.30am - 3.30pm, Monday to Friday Working alongside our experienced and supportive team, you will help provide a safe, positive and engaging learning environment, supporting children with their individual learning, communication, emotional and social needs. Every day in The Nest is different, and whilst working with children with additional needs can sometimes be challenging, it is also incredibly rewarding. From celebrating those small but significant achievements to watching a child grow in confidence and independence, you will have the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day.

We would love to hear from someone who:

• Is kind, caring, patient and genuinely passionate about supporting children with additional needs.
• Has a positive, flexible and enthusiastic approach.
• Can build trusting and supportive relationships with children, staff and families.
• Understands that every child is unique and that progress looks different for everyone.
• Can remain calm, understanding and reassuring when children need additional support.
• Enjoys working as part of a close and supportive team.
• Is willing to learn, develop new skills and embrace our inclusive approach.
• Supports the Christian ethos and values of our school.

What can we offer you?

• Supporting children with their individual learning and development needs
• Helping children develop their communication, social skills, confidence and independence.
• Providing a calm, patient and nurturing approach to supporting children's emotional and sensory needs.
• Working closely with teachers and other support staff to provide personalised learning opportunities.
• Supporting children during playtimes, lunchtimes and other school activities.
• Celebrating children's achievements and helping them feel safe, happy and included within our school community.
• The opportunity to work in a very special, newly established provision where you can make a real difference.
• A friendly, welcoming and supportive school community.
• A dedicated and experienced team who work closely together to support one another.
• Opportunities for training, professional development and gaining valuable experience in supporting children with autism.
• A rewarding role where even the smallest achievements can bring the greatest sense of pride., We warmly encourage prospective applicants to visit The Nest, meet our team and see firsthand what makes our provision such a special place to work.

Working pattern: Part-time, Term-time only (working for 39 weeks per year plus 6.05 weeks annual leave, which will increase after 5 years' continuous service)

As the position is part‑time/term‑time only, the above salary will be pro rata.