SEN Behaviour Support Assistant

Location: East Sussex
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Contract: Full-time and part-time opportunities
Agency: Academics Ltd

Turn Challenges Into Opportunities for Growth

Academics is recruiting Behaviour Support Assistants to work in specialist SEN schools across East Sussex.

We're looking for resilient and emotionally intelligent individuals who can support pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, emotional dysregulation and behaviours that can present barriers to learning.

Pupils may experience difficulties with frustration tolerance, transitions, social interaction, emotional regulation or engagement with the classroom environment. The right support can help them develop coping strategies, build trusting relationships and access education more successfully.

The Role

• Support pupils who experience emotional dysregulation and behavioural difficulties.

• Implement individual behaviour support plans and school-approved de-escalation strategies.

• Recognise potential triggers and help pupils manage transitions and changes in routine.

• Encourage emotional literacy, self-regulation and positive coping strategies.

• Maintain clear, consistent boundaries while building supportive relationships.

• Help pupils re-engage with learning following challenging moments.

• Work collaboratively with teachers and pastoral staff to promote positive outcomes.

• Follow safeguarding, risk assessment and behaviour management procedures.

Essential Qualities

• Resilience and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

• Strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of the importance of trust.

• A patient, consistent and non-confrontational approach.

• An interest in understanding the factors that influence behaviour.

• The ability to maintain professional boundaries while providing empathetic support.

Previous experience in SEMH, alternative provision, youth work, residential care, mentoring or behaviour support is highly desirable.

Training in relevant behaviour-support approaches is beneficial, but any restrictive or physical intervention must only be undertaken where appropriately trained and authorised by the school.

If you're passionate about helping pupils overcome barriers to learning and develop the skills they need to succeed, apply today through Academics.

Salary will be determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, and will be in accordance with the client's pay policy.