We are seeking to establish a pool of Special Needs Education Assistants for permanent and fixed term, full-time and part-time vacancies which may arise during the 2027 school year. Appointments may be offered at any time for vacancies that commence during this period.

Poynter Primary School (PS), established in 1980, is located in the leafy suburb of Duncraig, just 15 kilometres from the Perth CBD and close to the coast. As a valued member of the Carine Schools Network, we work collaboratively with neighbouring schools to enhance teaching, learning and leadership opportunities.

With approximately 420 students, Poynter PS has earned a strong reputation for academic excellence, supported by consistently high student achievement. Our students benefit from a rich and engaging curriculum, including access to the regional Primary Extension and Academic Challenge (PEAC) program and our own Higher Order Thinking Skills Program. Alongside this, we are proud to offer outstanding specialist programs in Music, Visual Arts, French and Physical Education.

Our expansive grounds, multiple playgrounds and modern learning environments provide students with spaces to learn, play and thrive. At Poynter, we are committed to creating a school where every student is challenged, supported and inspired to achieve their personal best. Our Poynter Way underpins everything we do, guiding our shared values, inclusive practices and strong partnerships with families and the wider community.

Find out more about our school by visiting poynterps.wa.edu.au or Schools Online

The Role

Join our team as an Education Assistant (Special Needs) and play an important role in supporting students with diverse learning needs to access the curriculum and achieve their individual goals. Working within Poynter PS inclusive and supportive learning environment, you will work collaboratively with teachers and the Learning Support Team to support students' academic, social-emotional and behavioural needs.

Suitable applicants will, under teacher direction, assist the teacher in the delivery of planned education programs, implement individual or small group programs or demonstrations and be able to provide valuable feedback to support student learning. They will ideally be able to support programs relevant to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Physical Disability, mental health and behavioural needs. They would support students to develop independence, engagement, self-regulation, communication and positive social interactions. This may include the use of computers and digital technologies and the implementation of specialised education or therapy programs, where required.

Suitable applicants will ideally work collaboratively with staff to create a positive, safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment that promotes student wellbeing, connected learning, participation and success. Personal attributes are key; we are seeking optimistic, caring, flexible, self-reflective and collaborative applicants who are committed to supporting every student to achieve their potential.

Want to know more?

Full details of the role, selection criteria and training requirements are listed in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).

For more information about this opportunity, please contact Sarah Kyle, Deputy Principal on (08) 9492 2350 or Sarah.Kyle@education.wa.edu.au

Equity and Diversity

We are committed to an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce reflecting the diversity in our schools and the Western Australian community. We welcome and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, young people, people of diverse sexualities and genders, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 

Explore our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan 2021-2025 for more details.

Eligibility

To work with us, you must:

• be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or have a valid visa with relevant work rights for the term of the appointment.
• obtain a valid Working With Children Check before you start; and
• consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and obtain a current Screening Clearance Number issued by the Department of Education’s Screening Unit before you start.

Additional eligibility and training requirements are outlined in the attached Job Description Form (JDF).

Application Instructions

Apply online in two easy steps:

Step 1: Select Apply for Job

Complete the online application form, including details of two (2) work related referees, preferably one (1) being your current line manager.

Step 2: Attach your documents

Your application should include:

• A CV of up to one (1) page outlining your employment history and professional learning summary relevant to this position; and
• A two (2) page statement addressing the following selection criteria as outlined in the attached JDF - delete selection criteria not to be addressed in statement

1. Demonstrated good written and oral communication skills, including the ability to interact with students with special needs, parents and teaching professionals on the provision of educational programs, and to assist teachers in understanding students where necessary.
2. Demonstrated good interpersonal skills, including the ability to work as part of a team in the evaluation of educational programs, including special education and therapy programs where these have been implemented.
6. Demonstrated ability to assist with general health and well-being of students.

Shortlisted applicants will have their skills and experiences in relation to the remaining selection criteria outlined in the attached JDF assessed in the further stages of the recruitment process.

It is recommended you have your attachments ready before selecting Apply for Job.

Your application must be received before the closing date and time. Late applications will not be accepted.

For technical support submitting your application, you can call the Department of Education’s Recruitment team on (08) 9264 4127 for assistance.

Advertised Vacancy Number: IPS/SS1065014

The Department applies a four (4) day breach period to this selection process.

Applications close: 4.30pm (AWST) on Thursday, 29 October 2026