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At St Paul’s, “Learning in God’s Love” is at the heart of everything we do. Our vision and values – Courage, Compassion and Community – guide us as we nurture every child to grow academically, socially and emotionally.
The role is Monday to Friday, 8:30am – 3:15pm.
We are seeking a committed and resilient Special Needs Assistant to work within our SEARCh Inclusion Base.
SEARCh is our nurturing inclusion provision, supporting children who may experience social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs, attachment-related difficulties, anxiety, emotional dysregulation or barriers to learning. The provision focuses on helping children feel safe, understood and ready to learn through strong relationships, structure and consistent support.
SEARCh is staffed by a teacher and skilled teaching assistants who work closely together to provide consistent, relational support for children. The team also benefits from specialist advice and collaboration with colleagues from our ASD Unit, alongside support from external professionals and advisors.
This role calls for a trauma-informed and relationship-based approach, someone who understands that behaviour is communication and that connection comes before correction.
The successful candidate will:
1. Build trusting and consistent relationships with children, supporting children through moments of dysregulation with calm and consistency.
2. Work closely with teachers, the SENDCo and external professionals to implement personalised strategies and support plans.
3. Support children’s engagement in learning, play and social interaction within a small, structured and nurturing environment.
4. Use a trauma-informed approach to support emotional regulation, resilience and readiness to learn.
5. Remain calm, reflective and solution-focused when faced with challenging situations.
6. Contribute to a safe, caring and inclusive environment where children feel valued and able to flourish.
We are looking for someone who:
7. Has experience of supporting children with SEMH, attachment-related needs and/or additional needs.
8. Understands the importance of co-regulation, emotional safety and positive relationships.
9. Is patient, consistent, resilient and emotionally attuned.
10. Works effectively as part of a compassionate and collaborative team.
11. Is reflective, open to feedback and committed to ongoing professional development.
In return, we offer:
12. A highly supportive and nurturing team.
13. Regular professional development and supervision in SEMH, attachment and trauma-informed practice.
14. The opportunity to make a transformational difference in children’s lives.
We reserve the right to shortlist and interview prior to the closing date, so early applications are strongly encouraged.
For an informal discussion or to arrange a visit, please contact the school office.
Safeguarding Statement
St Paul's CofE Primary School & Nursery, Tongham is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.