SEN Nursery Practitioner

Reed; Swaffham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational recruitment agency in the UK is looking for experienced Nursery Assistants or Early Years Practitioners to work in Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools. You will support children's development in a nurturing environment, focusing on sensory play and emotional support. Qualified candidates with experience in SEN are encouraged to apply for this rewarding role that offers regular hours and a supportive team atmosphere.

Benefits

Term-time role

Structured days

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience with sensory play and supporting children with additional needs is a plus.
• A calm, patient, and caring approach is essential.

Responsibilities

• Support children's development in a SEN school setting.
• Engage in sensory play and help with emotional support.
• Work alongside teachers and therapists.

Skills

Sensory play expertise

Communication strategies

Support for children with additional needs

Calm and patient approach

Education

Level 2 or 3 qualifications in Early Years

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.