Job Description
Sowilo Community High School is seeking a dedicated and experienced Educational Assistant to join our dynamic team. In this part-time role, you will be working closely with our teachers to support students to re-engage with learning in an nurturing way and ensure they receive the individualised attention and care they require to thrive.
Based in Kelmscott, WA, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.
What you'll be doing
You will provide tailored in-class support, assist with the delivery of non-assessed curriculum to small groups, facilitate electives, and contribute to the warm, consistent presence that our students rely on. This is a secondary school role — your students are teenagers navigating real challenges, and your ability to connect with them authentically matters as much as your classroom skills.
Duties include:
Providing one-on-one and small group support to students with various special educational needs
Collaborating closely with teachers to support students with literacy and numeracy challenges through targeted, sensitive and evidence-informed approaches
Help maintain a safe, ordered, and engaging classroom environment — including calm and constructive responses to behavioural challenges
Liaise with welfare professionals and teachers as part of an integrated support team around each student
Creating a positive, inclusive, and nurturing environment that fosters the growth and development of our students
Facilitate and deliver elective and after-school activities
Assisting with the preparation of learning materials and resources to support student learning
Participating in professional development opportunities to continuously improve your skills and knowledge
What we're looking for
Above all, we are looking for someone whose instincts match our school's philosophy. The skills and experience that matter most to us:
Secondary school experience — you understand adolescent development, the dynamics of a high school classroom, and how to build productive relationships with teenage students, preferably with students with special educational needs
Relevant qualifications - you will hold a relevant qualification in education, special education, or a related field
Strong communication skills — including active listening, conflict resolution, and the ability to build positive relationships with students, teachers, and other community members
Genuine belief in every student — you are motivated by working with young people who have been disengaged from school, and you see their potential rather than their difficulties. You demonstrate patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for supporting the growth and development of the students you work with
Emotional resilience and patience — you remain calm, consistent, and warm in the face of classroom disruption or challenging behaviour, without taking it personally
Professionalism and confidentiality — you maintain appropriate boundaries, exercise sound professional judgement, and uphold the trust of students
Ready to hit the ground running — you are confident working independently with small groups and can be effective in a secondary classroom without extensive direction
A valid Working with Children Check and National Police Clearance
What we offer
At Sowilo Community High School, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment that values the contributions of our staff. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer opportunities for professional development, and a range of employee benefits to support your well-being and work-life balance.
About us
Sowilo Community High School is an independent non-government secondary school in Kelmscott, WA. We exist for one reason: to re-engage young people who have found the mainstream school system difficult, and help them discover that learning can be meaningful and relevant.
Our students benefit from Individualised Education Plans, a whole-school welfare support, and a rich program of specialised learning — from wilderness treks and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to aquaponics and VET qualifications. Our approach is holistic, relationship-centred, and deeply human.
Visit our website to learn more about Sowilo's programs and community before applying: https://sowilocommunityhigh.org/
If you're inspired to make a difference in the lives of our students, we'd love to hear from you - Apply Now.
Pay: $34.00 – $41.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Education Assistant - Special Needs position is now open for candidates interested in the Education Jobs sector. This role in Kelmscott offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Education Jobs is a plus.
