Specialist Support Assistant - SEND

Specialist Support Assistant

Location: Birmingham

Contract: Permanent Term-Time Contract

Days: Monday to Thursday (4 days)

Hours: 08:30 to 15:00

Salary: £13,689.00 to £16,731.00 pa (dependent on experience)

About Birmingham Independent College (BIC)

BIC is an independent specialist college supporting young people aged 14–25 with autism who have multiple disabilities, including learners with complex needs, functional abilities, and high-performing students. Our ethos is clear: students are not defined by their disabilities, but supported to realise their potential.  

At BIC we offer a broad and inclusive curriculum tailored to the diverse needs of our learners:

·                for those with more complex needs, we deliver an experiential, independence-focused curriculum that prioritises functionality, life skills, and meaningful engagement with the wider community. This pathway supports our learners in developing greater autonomy, confidence in everyday life and social integrationAbout the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Specialist Support Assistant to join our SEND team. This role is ideal for someone who has a minimum of 2 years UK school/college experience supporting students with additional needs and is confident delivering targeted interventions with increasing independence.

You will play a key role in supporting students with complex needs ensuring they can access learning, develop independence, and achieve positive outcomes.

 Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality 2:1, 1:1 and small group support for students with SEND.
• Deliver structured intervention programmes (e.g., literacy, numeracy, social skills, emotional regulation).
• Support the implementation of individual support plans and EHCP targets.
• Monitor, track and evaluate student progress.
• Contribute to the review of EHCP targets and support plans.
• Adapt classroom resources to meet individual needs.
• Support positive behaviour strategies and inclusion across the college.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, the SENCO, and external professionals.
• Proven experience supporting complex needs students.
• Experience delivering targeted interventions independently.
• Understanding of inclusive education and adaptive teaching (differentiation) strategies.
• Strong communication and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to build positive, professional relationships with students and families.
• GCSE English and Maths or equivalent (Grade 4/C or above).
• Relevant Level 2 qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 2 years UK school/college work experience
• Specialist training in areas such as ASC, SEMH, Speech & Language, or behaviour support.
• Experience supporting students with EHCPs.
• A supportive and inclusive working environment.
• Ongoing CPD and specialist training.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking leadership team.

About YouEssentialDesirableWhat We OfferSafeguarding

Birmingham Independent College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be subject to enhanced safer recruitment checks, including an Enhanced DBS check, verification of qualifications, employment history, references, right to work in the UK and online searches in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).

How to Apply

Start the process by clicking ‘apply’.  Our Administrative Coordinator will email an application pack to your email address in due course. (Ensure you check your inbox and junk folder). As part of your application, you must complete a BIC Application form and provide a supporting statement (no more than 2 pages of A4) outlining your experience and strengths.

The closing date for this position is Monday 7th September 2026. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may be arranged with suitable candidates before the vacancy closes. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

In line with KCSIE (Keeping children Safe in Education) we will complete online searches as part of our due diligence on all shortlisted candidates. If anything is identified as part of these checks, they will be discussed with you at interview. If any safeguarding concerns are identified, we reserve the right to withdraw your application. 

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.

A copy of the college’s Safeguarding Policy, including Child Protection Policy can be found on our website.

Birmingham Independent College requires all applicants to be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions as we are unable to offer sponsorship/work visas. You will be required to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK, evidence of your qualifications and suitable references.

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