Special Needs Education Assistant

About the school

Cable Beach Primary School in Broome offers a lively learning setting built around strong community values. The school’s culture is shaped by four key principles: being safe, respectful, resilient and strong, and always doing your best. These values are embedded throughout classroom practice and supported by a Positive Behaviour Support approach that promotes a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment.

The school is also recognised for its commitment to Aboriginal education, including the teaching of Yawuru language and culture. Its planning and improvement work for Indigenous students is informed by the Aboriginal Culture Standards Framework. Cable Beach Primary School has also been recognised through public school review and repeated award nominations as a highly regarded school.

The opportunity

The Department of Education, Western Australia is building a pool of Special Needs Education Assistants for permanent and fixed-term roles, available on a full-time or part-time basis, that may arise during the 2026 school year and up to the end of Term 3, 2027. Suitable candidates may be appointed at any time for vacancies that begin within this period.

Cable Beach Primary School’s Endorsed Education Support Program supports students with diagnosed disabilities such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Global Developmental Delay and Intellectual Disability. The program operates with small class sizes, strong staffing ratios of experienced teachers and education assistants, and a dedicated alternative learning space that includes a sensory room and an outdoor area with specialist equipment. Students are supported in an inclusive setting with appropriate opportunities to join mainstream activities when suitable for their development.

What you will do

In this role, you will support and supervise students who may display challenging behaviour, while helping create a positive learning environment. You will work closely with teachers to deliver high-quality, student-centred programs and contribute to an inclusive classroom experience tailored to individual needs.

You will also collaborate with the National Disability Insurance Scheme and other therapy providers so that home and school goals are aligned and students can progress successfully. Supporting communication, building independence and encouraging emotional regulation are important parts of the role. Experience using Augmentative and Alternative Communication tools such as visuals and speech devices with non-verbal students is an advantage.

This position also requires close teamwork and a willingness to assist colleagues whenever needed.

Selection criteria and training

The full job description form includes the detailed duties, selection criteria and any required training. Applicants should review that document for the complete role expectations.

Eligibility and requirements

To be considered, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a valid visa with work rights for the appointment period. Before starting, you must also obtain a valid Working With Children Check and consent to a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check, along with a current Screening Clearance Number issued by the Department of Education’s Screening Unit. Any additional eligibility or training conditions are provided in the job description form.

How to apply

Applications are completed online in two steps. First, submit the online form and include details of two work-related referees, preferably including your current line manager. Second, upload your supporting documents.

Your application must include a CV of up to two pages covering your work history and relevant professional learning, plus a one-page cover letter that addresses the selection criteria in the job description form.

It is recommended that you prepare your documents before starting the application. Late submissions will not be accepted, and your application must arrive by the closing date and time.

Support and contact

For more information about the role, contact Tanya Mitchell, Manager Corporate Services, on (08) 9194 7300 or by email at Tanya.Mitchell@education.wa.edu.au. During school holidays, contact Tanya Mitchell on 0447 665 724. If you need technical help with the application process, you can call the Department of Education Recruitment team on (08) 9264 4127.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

The Department is committed to building an inclusive and culturally responsive workforce that reflects the diversity of Western Australian schools and the wider community. Applications are encouraged from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, people of all sexualities and genders, people with disability, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Additional information

Advertised vacancy number: IPS/SS1039176.

The Department uses a four-day breach period for this selection process.

Applications close at 4.30pm (AWST) on Friday, 31 July 2026.