Special Education Unit Teaching Assistant

The-Willows-Primary-School; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

The Willows Primary School in Ipswich is seeking patient, positive Teaching Assistants to join the founding team of The Rockpool SEND provision, supporting up to 12 KS1 children with communication and interaction needs.

You will work with teachers and the SENDCo, using visual supports and structured routines to enable pupils to access learning, build confidence and develop independence. A nurturing environment and ongoing training are offered.

Responsibilities

• Help create a calm, safe and stimulating learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.
• Build warm and trusting relationships that help children develop confidence, communication and independence.
• Work closely with teachers and the SENDCo to support children’s individual learning, communication and emotional regulation needs.
• Use visual supports, structured routines and communication-friendly strategies to support pupils to access learning activities successfully and develop self-help, independence and life skills.
• Contribute to observations and records of pupil progress.
• Support inclusion opportunities within the wider school community.
• Show flexibility, teamwork and a willingness to learn as part of a dedicated and supportive team.
• Ensure every day counts for every child.

Job description

• The Willows Primary School
• Address:Downing Close, Ipswich, Suffolk IP2 9ER
• Salary:£26,847per annum (pro rata), Payscale Grade 3, Spinal Column Point 6
• Hours: Part time, 30 hours per week, 39 weeks a year
• Contract:Permanent
• Reference:5634

In September 2026 The Willows Primary School was thrilled open The Rockpool, our specialist SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provision for up to 12 Key Stage 1 children with communication and interaction needs, including autism spectrum disorder.

Due to continued growth, we are now seeking caring and motivated Teaching Assistants to join the founding team of this exciting new provision. This is a wonderful opportunity to help create a nurturing and inclusive environment where children feel safe, understood and inspired to achieve their full potential.

As a patient, positive and committed practitioner you will:

• Help create a calm, safe and stimulating learning environment where every child feels valued and supported.
• Build warm and trusting relationships that help children develop confidence, communication and independence.
• Work closely with teachers and the SENDCo to support children’s individual learning, communication and emotional regulation needs.
• Use visual supports, structured routines and communication-friendly strategies to support pupils to access learning activities successfully and develop self-help, independence and life skills.
• Contribute to observations and records of pupil progress.
• Support inclusion opportunities within the wider school community.
• Show flexibility, teamwork and a willingness to learn as part of a dedicated and supportive team.
• Ensure every day counts for every child.

In return we can offer:

• A welcoming and supportive school community.
• High-quality training and professional development opportunities.
• The chance to work alongside experienced staff and external professionals.
• A school that values your contribution and encourages you to develop your skills and confidence.
• The opportunity to be part of something truly special from the very beginning and make a genuine difference to the lives of children and families every day.
• A warm welcome from our wonderful children when you visit.

If you are passionate about supporting children with, SEND and believe every child deserves to feel successful, included and valued, we would love to hear from you.

Come and help us build something extraordinary at The Rockpool.

For more information

Please read the Job Description (pdf) and Person Specification (pdf).

To find out more about our School, please visit our website.

Closing date: 9.00 am, 2 November 2026.

Please note:

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.