ASC Learning Support Assistant / Teaching Assistant

Tradewind Recruitment LTD.; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment LTD is recruiting an Autism Support / Learning Support Assistant for a specialist SEMH/ASC day school in Rishton, near Blackburn. The role is full-time or temp-to-perm, starting ASAP, working with pupils aged 5-16 who have ASC/SEMH needs, supporting behavioural regulation and learning.

You will work closely with teachers and therapists, provide 1:1 and small group support, and help create a nurturing, low-stimulation environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with ASC/SEMH/complex needs in school, residential, or youth settings.
• Attitude and aptitude are paramount for working with vulnerable children.
• Enhanced DBS or willingness to apply for Update Service.

Responsibilities

• 1:1 and small group support for pupils with ASC/SEMH needs.
• Support emotional regulation and de-escalation in classroom and beyond.
• Assist in delivering tailored lessons and adapting materials.
• Collaborate with therapists and staff on education and therapy plans.
• Be a positive role model in a nurturing environment.

Skills

De-escalation skills

Patience

Emotional resilience

Creative problem-solving

Education

Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualification

Job description

ASC Learning Support Assistant / Teaching Assistant

• Location: Rishton, Lancashire area (near Blackburn)

• Setting: Specialist SEMH / Independent Day School (approx. 40 pupils, ages 5-16)

• Position Type: Full-Time / Temp-to-Perm (ASAP start with a view to a permanent contract)

• Salary: per day

About the School

We are working alongside a well-regarded, independent specialist day school located in Rishton. Catering to approximately 40 pupils with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC), and associated communication difficulties, the school provides a nurturing, low-stimulus, and highly supportive environment. Their core mission is to help every young person achieve academic, personal, and developmental success through a tailored curriculum and dedicated therapeutic input.

Role Overview

We are seeking a compassionate, resilient, and proactive Autism Support / Learning Support Assistant (ASC/SEMH LSA) to join their dynamic team starting ASAP.

In this role, you will work closely with pupils diagnosed with ASC and SEMH needs, helping them navigate their school day, manage emotional regulation, and engage meaningfully with their learning. This position begins on a temporary basis with a view to securing a permanent contract for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• 1:1 and Small Group Support: Assist pupils with ASC and SEMH needs inside and outside the classroom, keeping them focused and calm.

• Behavioural & Emotional Regulation: Implement positive behaviour support strategies, de-escalation techniques, and emotional literacy support.

• Curriculum Assistance: Support the teacher in delivering tailored lessons, adapting materials to suit individual learning styles.

• Communication & Collaboration: Work alongside speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and teaching staff to execute individual education and therapy plans.

• Building Trust: Act as a positive, consistent role model, fostering a safe and welcoming atmosphere for vulnerable children.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience: Previous experience working with children or young people with ASC, SEMH, ADHD, or complex learning needs within a school, residential, or youth work setting.

• Skills: Strong de-escalation skills, patience, emotional resilience, and a creative approach to problem-solving.

• Qualifications: Relevant childcare, youth work, or education qualifications (e.g., Level 2 or 3 Teaching Assistant, CACHE, or equivalent) are advantageous, though attitude and aptitude are paramount.

• Availability: Able to start ASAP on a full-time basis.

• Compliance: Must hold (or be willing to apply for) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to transition into a permanent contract with a supportive and progressive specialist school.

• Comprehensive in-house training and professional development.

• A rewarding working environment where you can genuinely make a life-changing difference in young people's lives.