Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated, compassionate and nurturing 1:1 SEN Support Practitioner to join our Pre-School team. In this important role, you will work closely with a 4-year-old child with additional educational and medical needs, providing consistent, individualised support to help them feel safe, included and able to thrive within the nursery environment. The child has a diagnosis of autism alongside other complex needs, and we are looking for someone who is patient, attentive and committed to supporting their individual development and wellbeing.
You will play an important role in supporting the child’s communication, engagement and development, as well as assisting with personal care and everyday routines where required. Building a trusting and positive relationship with the child will be at the heart of the role, alongside developing strong communication and partnership with their parents and the wider nursery team. You will work closely with our SENCO and room leader to implement individual support strategies and contribute to the child’s support plans, ensuring their needs are met and supported throughout the day.
This position is offered as a job share, with the ideal candidate working Mondays and Tuesdays, 8:00am–6:00pm. For candidates looking for additional hours, there may also be the opportunity to work as a Nursery Assistant on the remaining days of the week.
Previous experience working with children with additional needs or SEN would be highly desirable. Above all, we are looking for someone who is caring, reliable, patient and genuinely passionate about making a positive difference to a child’s early years experience.
About Us
We are a newly established setting with 7 vibrant classrooms and 3 dedicated extra-curricular spaces, we pride ourselves on creating an inspiring environment where children, families, and staff thrive. We believe that time spent engaging with children is far more valuable than excessive paperwork, which is why we operate a streamlined approach, with family communication focused on photos, shared moments, and genuine connections.
You will work closely with management to uphold our values, support staff development, and create a calm, nurturing, and stimulating environment where babies feel safe, secure, loved, and encouraged to explore the world around them.
This is a fantastic opportunity to grow with a nursery that is expanding, forward-thinking, and genuinely committed to staff wellbeing, professional trust, and exceptional care.
Responsibilities
- Provide one-on-one support to students with special educational needs, ensuring their individual learning plans are effectively implemented.
- Assist students with daily activities, including classroom tasks, personal care routines, and social interactions.
- Support communication development by using appropriate strategies and tools tailored to each student’s needs.
- Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and parents to monitor progress and adapt support strategies accordingly.
- Create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment that encourages student participation and confidence.
- Assist with behavior management techniques to promote positive conduct and emotional well-being.
- Maintain detailed records of student progress, incidents, and interventions to ensure consistent support and compliance with policies.
Experience
- Previous experience working with children in educational or care settings is essential.
- Experience supporting individuals with autism or other disabilities is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of special education practices and tailored teaching methods is preferred.
- Familiarity with toddler care or early childhood development enhances your ability to support young learners effectively.
- Strong communication skills are vital for collaborating with team members, the child, and families.
- Demonstrated ability to adapt quickly to diverse needs and maintain a positive, energetic attitude in challenging situations is important.
Pay: £12.72-£14.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
