Individual Needs Assistant (Ocklynge Junior School - South Downs Learning Trust)

Job Description

Hours of work: 32.5 Hours
Working pattern: Part-time, Term-time only etc.
(As the position is part-time/term-time only, the above salary will be pro rata)
Fixed term: Until 31 August 2027

Closing date: 12pm Wednesday 18 November 2026

For more information and to apply for the above post, please contact:

Ocklynge Junior School
Victoria Drive
Eastbourne
East Sussex
BN20 8XN

Phone: 01323 504011
Email: ahayden@ratton.co.uk
Website: www.ocklynge.co.uk

Please note, we do not accept CVs.

The Launch Pad is Ocklynge Junior School's specialist facility for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The pupils within the provision have a range of complex needs which may include differences in communication and interaction, sensory processing needs, emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety, demand avoidance, social communication challenges and behaviours that can present as a response to distress.
This is a rewarding but demanding role that requires patience, resilience, adaptability and a genuine commitment to supporting children with additional needs. No two days are the same.
As a Launch Pad Individual Needs Assistant, you will support pupils both within the specialist provision and during their integration into mainstream classes. You will play a vital role in helping children develop communication skills, emotional regulation, independence, resilience and positive relationships.
The successful candidate will need to remain calm under pressure and be confident supporting pupils who may:
• Experience significant emotional dysregulation.
• Present with distressed or challenging behaviour.
• Require support following incidents of aggression towards adults or peers.
• Need assistance with transitions, routines and unexpected changes.
• Require a highly individualised approach to learning and communication.
• Need support to access mainstream lessons and wider school activities.
We are looking for someone who can build trusting relationships with pupils while maintaining clear boundaries, high expectations and a relentless belief in every child's potential.
Comprehensive training and ongoing support will be provided, including autism-specific approaches, behaviour support, safeguarding and positive handling where appropriate.

This role would suit someone who enjoys building positive, trusting relationships with children, demonstrates emotional resilience and can remain calm and consistent when faced with challenging situations.
The role may be particularly suited to candidates with experience in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), care, youth work, family support, mental health services, specialist education or related fields. However, relevant transferable skills, personal qualities and a willingness to learn are also important.
While highly rewarding, the role can be physically and emotionally demanding. It requires patience, consistency, emotional resilience and a reflective approach, alongside a commitment to supporting children’s individual needs, wellbeing and development.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Grade: Single Status 3, point 7 (£25,614 fte) per annum, pro rata.
Actual Salary: £19,438 gross per annum, £1619.86 gross per month
Hours: 32.50 hours per week to be worked 8.30am-3.30pm (Mon to Fri) with a 30-minute unpaid break daily.
Contract: Term time only / fixed term until August 2027 in the first instance________________________________________
IMPORTANT DATES AND HOW TO APPLY
To apply for this role, please submit a completed application form (CVs will not be accepted).
• If you download the application form from our Vacancies page at Vacancies | Ocklynge, please email your completed form to: Mrs Hayden, Trust Executive Assistant at ahayden@ratton.co.uk
Closing Date: 12 noon on Wednesday 18 November 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 26 November 2026
Start Date: As soon as possible
Early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to review applications as they are received and may close the advert early if a suitable candidate is found.

About us

Additional Information
The Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff will be expected to hold or be willing to obtain an enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record.
All school based staff have the responsibility for promoting the safeguarding and welfare of children. All school staff should be aware of the school’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and work in accordance with this document at all times.