Special Needs & Lunchtime Assistant

Hours: 13 hours 20 minutes per week - Monday - Friday 12.05pm – 2.45pm

Term Time only

Grade B: £12.85 - £13.02 per hour

Fixed term until 31st August 2026

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team as a SEND Support Assistant, working closely with groups or individuals who have additional needs. This is a temporary position, for the remainder of the academic year, with a possibility of extension. 

About the role

You will play a vital role in supporting some of our child with EHCPs, helping them access learning and thrive in a safe, structured environment. This position requires patience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to inclusive education. The role will also involve supporting the children at lunchtime either in the hall or outside.

The successful candidate will:

• Take a child-centred approach to support and learning.
• Create structure for children with SEND needs.
• Stay calm under pressure and follow a fixed timetable.
• Have experience supporting children with social/communication difficulties individually and in small groups
• Keep pupils motivated and engaged.
• Demonstrate a calm but firm approach.
• Adapt quickly and think on your feet.
• Be flexible and eager to learn.
• Attune to a child’s emotional needs.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team and independently when required.
• Communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing.
• Show excellent behaviour management skills.
• Understand confidentiality and safeguarding procedures.
• Be able to support the children with positive interactions at lunchtime either assisting in the hall or outside on the playground. 

Desirable: Previous experience working with children with Special Educational Needs.

Our Vision

• Children are at the heart of everything we do.
• We create a safe, inclusive environment where every child can achieve their full potential.
• We offer an exciting curriculum that is built on first hand experiences.
• We nurture creative, enquiring minds and promote resilience, confidence, and wellbeing.
• We build strong partnerships with parents and the wider school community.
• We foster a lifelong love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

We warmly welcome a tour of the school, if you would like to visit, please contact the school office on 01489 782075 / adminoffice@freegrounds-inf.hants.sch.uk to arrange a tour.

For an application please contact adminoffice@freegrounds-inf.hants.sch.uk. The closing date is 12 noon Friday 6th February 2026

Interviews will be held Thursday 12th February

Safer Recruitment

We 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 Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.