Support Assistant (Visually Impaired) (2 posts)

Newcastle City Council; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government organization in Newcastle upon Tyne seeks a Specialist Support Assistant for the Children’s Vision Team. The role involves providing specialist support to children with visual impairment in various educational settings while collaborating with parents and professionals. Candidates should have a minimum level 2 award in Supporting Teaching and Learning and experience working with SEND children. The position offers a salary range of £24,955 – £26,637 per annum for a term-time only contract.

Qualifications

• Minimum level 2 award/certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning (Teaching Assistant) or equivalent.
• Recent experience working with SEND children and young people, ideally in a mainstream setting.
• Strong organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver specialist support to children with visual impairment across VIARPs.
• Collaborate with parents and professionals for inclusive education.
• Adapt and create modified resources for the curriculum.

Skills

Strong organisational skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to adapt resources

Commitment to inclusive education

Education

Minimum level 2 award in Supporting Teaching and Learning

Job description

SEND Sensory Service – Specialist Support Assistant (Children’s Vision Team)

Permanent 1.0 FTE – Term time only, 39 weeks of work. Salary £24,955 – £26,637 per annum. 37 hours per week. 2 posts. Closing date 11 January 2026.

About the Role

Newcastle Sensory Service is appointing a Specialist Support Assistant to join an enthusiastic team that supports children and young people with visual impairment, their families, early years settings and schools across the city.

The successful candidate will work within the city‑wide Visual Impairment Additional Resourced Provisions (VIARPs) – well‑established schools that are an integral part of the host schools.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver specialist support to children and young people with visual impairment across VIARPs.
• Collaborate with parents, colleagues and professionals to deliver inclusive, multi‑agency education.
• Adapt and create modified resources, Braille and visual materials for the curriculum.
• Participate in professional development, including SEND Sensory Service training on ‘Supporting Children with Visual Impairment’.
• Maintain accurate record keeping and support the school team in safeguarding and assessment.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum level 2 award/certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning (Teaching Assistant) or equivalent.
• Recent experience working with SEND children and young people, ideally in a mainstream setting.
• Strong organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to inclusive education and experience working effectively as part of a multi‑agency team.
• Willingness to undertake specialist training run by SEND Sensory Service.

How to Apply

Apply online at www.northeastjobs.org.uk, select ‘Apply Now’ and complete the online application form. Prior to interview references will be requested. Successful applicants will undergo additional recruitment checks, including a criminal convictions check, a police information check and a barred list check.

For further information contact Lead Specialist Teacher (VI) Katie Fuller at [e-mail].

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people, irrespective of age, colour, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital or civil partnership status, nationality, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or protected class.