Individual Needs Assistant (The Nest – Autism Facility Chailey St Peter's CE Primary School )
East Sussex County Council · Lewes, East Sussex, United Kingdom · onsite
Hours of work: 32.5 per week.
Working pattern: Part-time, Term-time only (working for 39 weeks per year plus 6.05 weeks annual leave, which will increase after 5 years' continuous service)
As the position is part-time/term-time only, the above salary will be pro rata.
Closing date: Friday 13th November 2026, 9:00am.
For more information and to apply for the above post, please contact:
The Nest – Autism Facility
Chailey St Peter's CE Primary School
East Grinstead Road
Chailey
Lewes
BN8 4DB
Phone: 01825 722939
Email: cspoffice@bluebellfederation.co.uk
Website: Chailey St Peters C Of E Primary School - Home
How to apply:
To find out more about the role, arrange a visit or request an application form, please contact Emma Callcott, Federation Business Manager, via email at ecallcott@bluebellfederation.co.uk.
Please note, we do not accept CVs.
Would you like to make a real difference to a child's school experience?
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a caring, enthusiastic and patient Individual Needs Assistant to join our wonderful team at The Nest, our newly opened autism facility at Chailey St Peter's CE Primary School, part of the Bluebell Federation.
Opened at Easter 2026, The Nest is a calm, nurturing and homely environment for up to 12 children with autism. It is a very special place where children are supported to grow in confidence, develop their independence, feel valued and truly belong.
Our children are at the heart of everything we do, and we are looking for someone who shares our passion for helping every child achieve their potential, however big or small their steps may be.
About the role
Hours: 8.30am – 3.30pm, Monday to Friday
Working alongside our experienced and supportive team, you will help provide a safe, positive and engaging learning environment, supporting children with their individual learning, communication, emotional and social needs.
Every day in The Nest is different, and whilst working with children with additional needs can sometimes be challenging, it is also incredibly rewarding. From celebrating those small but significant achievements to watching a child grow in confidence and independence, you will have the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day.
Your role will include:
- Supporting children with their individual learning and development needs
- Helping children develop their communication, social skills, confidence and independence.
- Providing a calm, patient and nurturing approach to supporting children's emotional and sensory needs.
- Working closely with teachers and other support staff to provide personalised learning opportunities.
- Supporting children during playtimes, lunchtimes and other school activities.
- Celebrating children's achievements and helping them feel safe, happy and included within our school community.
We would love to hear from someone who:
- Is kind, caring, patient and genuinely passionate about supporting children with additional needs.
- Has a positive, flexible and enthusiastic approach.
- Can build trusting and supportive relationships with children, staff and families.
- Understands that every child is unique and that progress looks different for everyone.
- Can remain calm, understanding and reassuring when children need additional support.
- Enjoys working as part of a close and supportive team.
- Is willing to learn, develop new skills and embrace our inclusive approach.
- Supports the Christian ethos and values of our school.
What can we offer you?
- The opportunity to work in a very special, newly established provision where you can make a real difference.
- A friendly, welcoming and supportive school community.
- A dedicated and experienced team who work closely together to support one another.
- Opportunities for training, professional development and gaining valuable experience in supporting children with autism.
- A rewarding role where even the smallest achievements can bring the greatest sense of pride.
We warmly encourage prospective applicants to visit The Nest, meet our team and see firsthand what makes our provision such a special place to work.