Therapy Play Assistant

Term Time Teachers; Wealden; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free safeguarding training

CPD training

Job summary

Academics are recruiting a Therapy Play Assistant for a welcoming SEN school in East Sussex. The role involves supporting pupils with SEN using play-based and therapeutic approaches to build confidence and communication.

Ideal candidates have 6+ months of SEN support experience in the UK, a caring and patient nature, and strong communication skills. Term-time hours with school-based duties offer a rewarding environment.

Qualifications

• At least 6 months' experience supporting children or adults with SEN in the UK.
• Careful, patient and empathetic by nature.
• Passion for supporting children with additional needs.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with Autism, ADHD, SEMH or other needs is desirable.
• Background in Psychology, Education, Child Development, Health & Social Care or Play Therapy is beneficial but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Supporting children on a 1:1 basis and in small groups.
• Delivering engaging play-based activities to encourage learning and emotional development.
• Helping pupils develop social, communication and emotional regulation skills.
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and other professionals to provide the best possible support.
• Creating a safe, nurturing and positive learning environment.
• Encouraging independence while celebrating each child's individual achievements.

Skills

SEN experience

Communication

Teamwork

Empathy

Education

Psychology background

Education background

Play Therapy knowledge

Job description

Therapy Play Assistant - SEN School

Location: East Sussex

Hours: Full-Time | Monday to Friday | Term Time Only

Start Date: September 2026

Agency: Academics

Are you passionate about supporting children with additional needs through play, creativity and therapeutic approaches?

Academics are recruiting on behalf of a welcoming and supportive SEN school in East Sussex for a Therapy Play Assistant to join their dedicated team this September. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to make a real difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.

As a Therapy Play Assistant, you will work closely with pupils who have a range of additional needs, including Autism (ASC), ADHD, speech and language difficulties, sensory processing needs and social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. You will use play-based activities and therapeutic approaches to help children develop confidence, communication, emotional regulation and positive relationships.

The Role:

• Supporting children on a 1:1 basis and in small groups.
• Delivering engaging play-based activities to encourage learning and emotional development.
• Helping pupils develop social, communication and emotional regulation skills.
• Working alongside teachers, therapists and other professionals to provide the best possible support.
• Creating a safe, nurturing and positive learning environment.
• Encouraging independence while celebrating each child's individual achievements.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• At least 6 months' experience supporting children or adults with SEN in the UK.
• A caring, patient and empathetic nature.
• A genuine passion for supporting children with additional needs.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience with Autism, ADHD, SEMH or other additional needs is highly desirable.
• A background in Psychology, Education, Child Development, Health & Social Care or Play Therapy is beneficial but not essential.

In Return, Academics Offers:

• Competitive daily pay.
• Dedicated consultant support throughout your placement.
• Opportunities for long-term and permanent positions.
• Free safeguarding and CPD training.
• A rewarding opportunity to gain valuable experience within a specialist SEN setting.

If you're looking to build a rewarding career supporting children with additional needs and want to join a school where every day makes a difference, we'd love to hear from you.