Non-Teaching Support Staff recruitment agency listing

Special needs support staff work with children with learning and physical difficulties. They work under the supervision of a special needs teacher.

Qualifications and entry requirements

The entry requirements for special needs support worker jobs vary between schools, although the majority of employers desire candidates to have an understanding of the requirements of special needs children, possibly gained through previous experience of caring for special needs kids. Employers tend to provide their newly recruited special needs support staff with induction training but may also expect them to gain qualifications relating to supporting teaching and learning in schools.

Employment opportunities for special needs support staff are available in special schools, mainstream schools and independent schools and are readily available through recruitment agencies that specialise in handling jobs in the education sector. While the most special needs support workers work school hours during term-time, those working in residential schools are likely to be required to work shifts. All prospective special needs support staff must pass a Criminal Records Bureau check before they can be taken on as school employees.

Salaries

Yearly salaries for full-time special needs support workers may be between £12,000 and £17,000. Salaries vary, depending on local educational authorities and the responsibilities associated with individual jobs. Part-time support workers are paid a portion of the full-time support worker rates.