Join Sullivan Upper School’s dedicated team and help make a positive difference to the lives of young people with special educational needs in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Classroom Assistant (Special Educational Needs)
Holywood, BT18 9EP

Fixed-term, part-time (32.5 hours per week, term-time only)
Salary: £14.99 – £15.74 per hour (NJC Points 11–14, dependent on experience)

Please Note: Applicants must be authorised to work in the UK

Sullivan Upper School is a co-educational, interdenominational grammar school set within 25 acres of beautiful grounds overlooking Belfast Lough. As part of the Secondary Department’s Learning Support Team, you’ll join a professional, caring environment that values teamwork, respect, and inclusion.

The Role

We’re seeking a compassionate, motivated and reliable Classroom Assistant (SEN) to support pupils on the Special Educational Needs Register, particularly those with social, emotional, behavioural, or communication and interaction needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Support pupils with special educational needs, ensuring inclusion in lessons and school life
Assist with the implementation of individual education and care plans
Help pupils stay focused, motivated, and engaged in learning activities
Support the development of social and emotional skills
Assist with personal care, mobility, and supervision where required
Promote independence, resilience, and confidence in pupils
Prepare classroom materials and assist with displays or resources
Monitor and record pupil progress and provide feedback to teachers and SENCO
Uphold confidentiality and safeguarding procedures at all times
Supervise pupils during transitions, breaks, and lunchtime as required
Participate in relevant training and professional development

Benefits:

Competitive hourly rate (£14.99 – £15.74 per hour)
32.5 hours per week (8:40am–3:40pm, term-time only)
Cycle to Work Scheme and Benenden Healthcare membership
Free on-site parking
Six-month probation period with induction and training
Pension with NILGOSC
Supportive staff team and opportunities for skill development

The Ideal Candidate

Minimum of 5 GCSEs (Grades A–C) including English and Maths (or equivalent)
Experience working with post-primary aged children with special educational needs
Understanding of child development and SEN support strategies
Confident ICT skills, including experience with OneDrive or Google Drive
Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities
Flexible, reliable, and able to work independently or under supervision
Understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding responsibilities

Desirable:

Relevant qualification in Classroom Assistance or SEN support
Additional academic or vocational qualifications in education or youth work
At least 6 months’ experience in a paid SEN classroom assistant role
Experience providing 1:1 support for pupils with social, emotional, or behavioural needs

How to apply for the role:

If you have the skills and experience required for this position, click “apply” today and check your inbox for an email providing more information on how to complete your application and provide any other supporting documents.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday 4 November 2025 at 12 noon.
Interview date: Friday 21 November 2025 (subject to confirmation).

You must be authorised to work in the UK. No agencies please.

Other suitable skills and experience include SEN Classroom Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, Behaviour Support Assistant, Teaching Assistant, Education Support Worker, Inclusion Assistant, Youth Support Worker, Special Needs Assistant, Pupil Support Officer, Pastoral Support Assistant.