Job Description
Sidlesham Primary School
Salary: WSCC Grade 3.3/4
Hours: 8.30am–12.00pm, Monday to Friday, term time only
Contract: Fixed term until 21st July 2027
Start Date: 4th January 2027 (or sooner if available)
Closing Date: Monday 9th November 2026 at 12 noon
Interview Date: Wednesday 11th November 2026
Sidlesham Primary School is seeking a caring, enthusiastic and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to support pupils with special educational needs. Working closely with the class teacher and SENCO, you will help deliver tailored learning activities, promote independence and inclusion, and support pupils' academic, social and emotional development.
The successful candidate will be patient, adaptable and committed to helping every child achieve their potential. Experience of working with children with SEND is desirable, along with strong communication skills and a positive, nurturing approach. You will join a friendly, supportive team where every member of staff makes a real difference.
We welcome applications from individuals who share our school values of ambition, confidence and kindness.
Sidlesham Primary School is a welcoming, friendly and inclusive village school situated just south of Chichester, surrounded by beautiful countryside and close to the coast.
We are proud of our close-knit school community, where children are encouraged to flourish academically, socially and emotionally. Our school values of Ambition, Confidence and Kindness are at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that every child feels safe, valued and supported to achieve their full potential.
We are looking for a caring, enthusiastic and dedicated SEND Teaching Assistant to join our supportive and committed team.
This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who is passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Working closely with the class teacher and SENCO, you will provide tailored support to pupils, helping them to access learning, develop confidence, build independence and participate fully in school life.
The role will involve supporting pupils both academically and emotionally, adapting learning activities to meet individual needs and creating a positive, nurturing environment in which every child can succeed.
You will play an important part in helping pupils overcome barriers to learning, celebrate their achievements and develop the skills they need to thrive.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has experience of working with children, ideally within a school or educational setting.
- Has an understanding of special educational needs and the importance of inclusive education.
- Is patient, compassionate, adaptable and able to respond sensitively to individual needs.
- Can build positive and trusting relationships with children and adults.
- Has good communication, literacy, numeracy and organisational skills.
- Can remain calm, supportive and professional in challenging situations.
- Works effectively as part of a team and is willing to learn and develop new skills.
- Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- Shares our school values of Ambition, Confidence and Kindness.
A relevant teaching assistant or childcare qualification would be desirable, although a willingness to work towards a qualification will also be considered.
At Sidlesham Primary School, we recognise the valuable contribution that every member of staff makes to our children's education and wellbeing.
You will become part of a friendly, collaborative and supportive school community where your work will be valued and where you will have the opportunity to make a genuine difference to children's lives.
We are committed to supporting staff development and providing a positive working environment in which everyone can grow and succeed.
If you are enthusiastic about supporting children with SEND and would like to join our dedicated team, we would love to hear from you.
Visits to the school are warmly encouraged. Please contact the school office to arrange a convenient time to come and meet us.
Safeguarding Statement
Sidlesham Primary School and West Sussex County Council are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to an appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service check along with other relevant employment checks, including satisfactory references.
Sidlesham Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.
Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references, an enhanced DBS check and relevant pre-employment checks.
How to Apply
NOTE TO CANDIDATES - Please do not select the ‘Apply online’ button as the School processes your applications directly rather than through this site.
To apply for this role please click on the Application Attachment links below.
Please complete the school's application form and submit it alongside a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. Ensure that you outline your motivations for applying and explaining the skills and experience you can bring to the role (please refer to the key skills in the job description).
Applications should be emailed to sbm@sidleshamprimaryschool.co.uk by 12 noon on Monday 9th November 2026.
Should you have any questions regarding the role or the application please contact the school directly.
Application Attachments:
Application Form - Non Teaching
SEND Teaching Assistant Application Pack
#LI-DNI
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individual and small-group support to pupils with SEND, following guidance from the class teacher and SENCO.
- Deliver planned learning activities and adapt resources and approaches to meet individual needs.
- Encourage pupils' independence, confidence, communication and social development.
- Support pupils' emotional wellbeing and promote positive behaviour.
- Monitor and record pupil progress, providing feedback to teaching staff.
- Help create an inclusive, safe and stimulating learning environment.
- Work collaboratively with teachers, support staff, parents and external professionals.
- Support pupils with individual care or therapy programmes where required, following appropriate guidance and training.
- Promote the safeguarding, welfare and wellbeing of all pupils.
Qualifications
Essential:
GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above.
Experience of working with children.
Desirable (not essential):
Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.
Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education.
An equivalent qualification in childcare, nursery work or classroom support.
Willingness to work towards a relevant qualification if not already held.