Creative Classroom Assistant

Are you looking for a rewarding role where your creativity, compassion and ability to build relationships can have a lasting impact on children's lives? At Protocol Education, we are recruiting Creative Classroom Assistants to work across Primary, Secondary and SEND schools throughout Durham and Sunderland. This opportunity is ideal for individuals from creative, therapeutic and people-focused backgrounds who are passionate about supporting children and young people to overcome barriers to learning and achieve their potential. We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience or qualifications in: Art TherapySpeech and LanguageDrama and Performing ArtsMusicDanceCreative ArtsPsychologyCounsellingYouth WorkMental Health SupportChildhood StudiesSocial CareCreative MediaPhotographyCommunity Support Whether you're a graduate looking to gain experience before pursuing further study or a professional seeking a more meaningful career, this role provides an excellent pathway into education. Why Creative Professionals Thrive in Schools Many pupils learn best when supported through creative, engaging and personalised approaches. Schools increasingly value individuals who can build trust, encourage communication and help children express themselves in different ways. Your skills could help pupils: Build confidence and self-esteemImprove communication and social interactionDevelop emotional regulation strategiesIncrease participation in lessonsStrengthen independence and resilienceOvercome barriers to learningDevelop positive relationships with peers and staff For pupils with SEND, SEMH needs or Speech and Language difficulties, having the right support can make a significant difference to both their education and wellbeing. The Role As a Creative Classroom Assistant, you will work closely with teachers, SEND professionals and pastoral teams to support pupils throughout the school day. Your responsibilities may include: Providing one-to-one support for pupils with additional needsSupporting children with Speech and Language needsAssisting pupils with Autism, ADHD and SENDDelivering creative interventions and engagement activitiesSupporting emotional wellbeing and confidence buildingEncouraging communication and social developmentHelping pupils access learning within the classroomBuilding positive and supportive relationshipsPromoting inclusion and participationSupporting behaviour and emotional regulation strategies No two days are the same, making this an incredibly rewarding and varied role. A Fantastic Opportunity for Future Careers This position is particularly valuable for individuals considering careers in: Speech and Language TherapyArt TherapyEducational PsychologyChild PsychologyOccupational TherapyTeachingSEND TeachingCounsellingYouth WorkSocial WorkFamily SupportBehaviour Support The experience gained within schools provides a strong foundation for future postgraduate study and professional development. Who We're Looking For The ideal candidate will be: Passionate about supporting children and young peoplePatient, empathetic and resilientA strong communicatorCreative and adaptableInterested in child development and educationComfortable building positive relationshipsMotivated to learn and develop professionally Previous experience working with children or young people is beneficial but not essential. We welcome applicants from therapeutic, creative and support-based backgrounds who are eager to transfer their skills into education. What Protocol Education Offers Competitive weekly pay through PAYEFlexible and long-term opportunitiesFree CPD and accredited trainingOngoing professional developmentDedicated consultant supportOpportunities across Primary, Secondary and SEND schoolsValuable experience supporting children with additional needsLong-term and permanent career opportunitiesA clear pathway into specialist educational and therapeutic careers Apply Today If you're interested in a career in Speech and Language Therapy, Art Therapy, Educational Psychology, Teaching or SEND Support, this role offers a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable school-based experience while making a genuine difference to children's lives. Join Protocol Education as a Creative Classroom Assistant and use your skills to help young people build confidence, overcome challenges and achieve success in the classroom and beyond. All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQs on the Protocol Education website for further details. All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date. Protocol Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with the DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’, this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants. We offer FREE online safeguarding and Prevent Duty training to all our workers. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and subscribe to the DBS Update Service. Full assistance provided. For details of our privacy policy, please see visit the Protocol Education website.