SEN Nursery Practitioner

Reed; Norwich; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational recruitment agency is seeking a qualified Nursery Assistant in Norwich to support children with special educational needs. You will use your expertise in sensory play and emotional support in fully resourced settings. Ideal candidates have Level 2 or 3 qualifications and a nurturing approach, with previous SEN experience being a bonus.

Benefits

Term-time roles

Regular hours

Less paperwork

Qualifications

• Experience with sensory play and supporting children with additional needs.
• A calm, patient, and caring approach is essential.
• SEN experience is an advantage, but not necessary.

Responsibilities

• Support children’s individualised care and development.
• Work alongside teachers and SEN specialists in smaller class sizes.
• Maintain predictable routines and focus on sensory support.

Skills

Sensory play

Communication strategies

Emotional support

Education

Level 2 or 3 qualified Nursery Assistants / Early Years Practitioners

Job description

Are you an experienced Nursery Assistant or Early Years Practitioner with a passion for supporting children’s development? Have you considered bringing your nurturing skills into the world of Special Educational Needs (SEN)?

There is a growing demand for early years professionals in SEN schools, where your expertise in sensory play, communication, and emotional support can make a life-changing difference.

Why SEN?

SEN schools support children and young people with a wide range of additional needs, including:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)
• Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)

These settings are fully resourced, with access to sensory rooms, specialist equipment, and tailored learning environments that allow you to focus on individualised care and development.

What Makes It Different?

• High Demand for Sensory Support – Your knowledge of sensory play and regulation is incredibly valuable.
• Smaller Class Sizes – More time to build meaningful relationships with pupils.
• Team-Based Approach – Work alongside teachers, therapists, and SEN specialists.
• Structured Days – Predictable routines and fewer transitions than mainstream nurseries.
• Work-Life Balance – Term-time roles, regular hours, and less paperwork.

Who Are We Looking For?

• Level 2 or 3 qualified Nursery Assistants / Early Years Practitioners.
• Experience with sensory play, communication strategies, or supporting children with additional needs.
• A calm, patient, and caring approach – SEN experience is a bonus, but not essential.

If you are interested in learning more about the roles available in partner schools, please apply now and your local consultant Sophie Lamont will be in touch for an informal chat.