Sendsory, Ipswich, Suffolk IP2 0AJ – Salary: £28,598 per annum (£23,970.84 actual). Hours: 40 hours per week, term time only. Contract: Fixed Term for 12 months, starting 1 September 2026. Reference: 0774.
SEND Assistant at Sendsory
You will support the daily delivery of our Therapeutic Curriculum, working under the direction of the Therapeutic Teacher to provide high‑quality, child‑centred learning experiences for children with complex SEND needs.
You will support the implementation of EHCP outcomes, contribute to AQA Unit Award Scheme evidence and help children develop life skills, communication, emotional regulation and independence through structured routines, therapeutic interaction and consistent relational support.
In this role, you will:
* Deliver engaging, child‑centred 1:1 and small group sessions under the direction of the Therapeutic Teacher, supporting curriculum delivery.
* Implement EHCP outcomes for individual pupils within sessions, ensuring personalised targets are embedded in daily practice.
* Support pupils to achieve AQA Unit Award Scheme outcomes through structured learning activities and recording of progress.
* Promote life skills development, social communication, emotional regulation and independence through daily routines and guided learning experiences.
* Encourage confidence, self‑help skills, problem‑solving and positive peer interaction to support preparation for everyday life and future learning; provide personal care for children where required, always maintaining dignity, privacy and respect.
* Prepare, set up and reset therapeutic learning environments, ensuring spaces are safe, calm and ready for use.
* Support children during breakfast and lunch routines, promoting independence, communication and positive social interaction.
* Use trauma‑informed and restorative approaches to actively de‑escalate behaviour in line with Behaviour in Education expectations and training.
* Build consistent, positive and trusting relationships with pupils, modelling emotional regulation, clear boundaries and appropriate behaviour.
* Record and report behaviour incidents, safeguarding concerns and wellbeing observations in line with organisational procedures.
* Support the implementation of therapeutic strategies that promote emotional safety, predictability and relational security.
* Attend safeguarding and behaviour briefings and contribute to reflective team discussions and solution‑focused planning.
* Undertake additional duties as directed by the Therapeutic Teacher, including preparing resources, adapting materials, creating visuals, laminating and supporting classroom organisation.
* Support emotional regulation and resilience using an attachment‑aware approach, recognising triggers and responding with consistent, supportive strategies that help children feel safe and understood.
You will need
* Experience working with children with SEND, SEMH, ASD, ADHD or trauma‑related needs.
* A strong understanding of trauma‑informed, attachment‑aware and restorative approaches.
* Experience or confidence in supporting learning in 1:1 and small group settings.
* The ability to build positive, consistent relationships with children with complex needs and confidence in supporting behaviour using calm, de‑escalation strategies.
* A willingness to support personal care needs where required and good communication skills, with the ability to work as part of a team under direction.
* An understanding of safeguarding responsibilities (training can be provided), flexibility, resilience and a proactive approach to supporting daily provision.
* A commitment to supporting children to develop independence, confidence and emotional regulation.
* QTS is not required for this role; applications are welcome from experienced support staff and those with relevant lived or professional experience.
* Experience using communication tools such as Makaton, PECS or visual supports is desirable.
About Sendsory
Sendsory is a specialist Alternative Provision supporting children aged 4–11 with SEND. Our Therapeutic Curriculum helps children regulate emotions, develop communication and social skills and build confidence in a nurturing, structured environment.
We support children who are awaiting school placement, at risk of or who have experienced permanent exclusion, and those disengaging from mainstream education.
What we offer
At Sendsory, you’ll join a supportive, child‑focused team, receive six training days per year and benefit from a competitive salary while making a meaningful difference to children with SEND.
Safeguarding and Equality
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. Sendsory is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Sendsory welcomes applications from men as they are currently under‑represented in this role.
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