Special Support Assistant

GUARDIAN SELECTION LIMITED; Southend-on-Sea; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading education agency is seeking a passionate Special Support Assistant in Southend-on-Sea to help children with special educational needs thrive academically and emotionally. The ideal candidate will support pupils through tailored strategies while promoting a positive learning environment. Opportunities for long-term roles and career development in special education are available, along with competitive pay based on experience.

Benefits

Competitive daily rate

Opportunities for career development

Ongoing training and support

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEND in educational settings.
• Strong communication skills and commitment to safeguarding.
• Enhanced DBS registered or able to apply.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 or small group support for pupils with learning difficulties.
• Implement tailored learning strategies with teachers.
• Record and monitor progress and behaviour.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

CACHE Level 2 or 3

NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Childcare or Teaching Assistance

Job description

Special Support Assistant
Location:Southend-on-Sea
Salary:£90- £130 per day (Depending on Experience)
Start Date:September 2025
Contract Type:Day-to-day/Long-term, Part-time/Full-time

Do you have the heart and patience to make a real difference in a child's life?

Join a nurturing school in Southend-on-Sea as a Special Support Assistant and help pupils with additional needs thrive both academically and emotionally.

As a Special Support Assistant, you will be a vital part of a dedicated team focused on helping pupils with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) reach their full potential. Your care, creativity, and consistency will create a safe and stimulating learning environment for children who need extra support.

Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 or small group support for pupils with learning difficulties, ASD, ADHD, or SEMH needs.
• Work closely with the class teacher and SENCO to implement tailored learning strategies.
• Help children manage behaviour positively and build social and emotional skills.
• Support pupils during lessons, transitions, and unstructured times (like lunch or breaks).
• Record and monitor progress and behaviour to help guide future support plans.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEN (in schools, care, or community settings).
• Relevant qualifications such as CACHE Level 2 or 3, NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Childcare or Teaching Assistance (desirable but not essential).
• A patient, empathetic, and positive approach to supporting students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with students and staff.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Possess an enhanced DBS registered to the update service or be willing to apply for one through GSL Education.

Why Join GSL Education?

• Competitive daily rate (£90–£130 per day, based on experience).
• Opportunities for long-term roles and career development in SEN education.
• Welcoming and inclusive school community with ongoing training and support.

Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection, and 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, independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff across the UK.

For more information or to register your interest in theSpecial Support Assistantrole in Southend-on-Sea, or to be considered, please click‘apply now’to submit your full and up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch.