Higher Level Learning Support Assistant

Cognita Schools; Leatherhead; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Enrollment in pension scheme

Free lunch during Term Time

School holidays

Free parking on site

School fee discount

Exclusive discounts

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

Downsend, part of Cognita Schools, seeks an experienced Higher Level Learning Support Assistant to join the SEND Team. The role focuses on helping students with SEND access learning through in-class support, small-group work and one-to-one assistance during term-time only.

You will implement EHCP strategies, support emotional wellbeing, and maintain records while collaborating with teachers, parents and external professionals. A proactive, caring approach is essential.

Qualifications

• Experience working with young people, ideally within a school or SEND setting.
• Understanding of SEND profiles and EHCPs.
• Strong communication and organisational skills; ability to stay calm in a busy school environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide in-class support, small-group interventions and one-to-one assistance.
• Deliver strategies and interventions outlined in EHCPs; support emotional wellbeing.
• Maintain accurate records using Provision Map and iSAMS; collaborate with teachers, parents and external professionals.

Skills

Experience with young people

SEND experience

Communication skills

Organisation

Relationship building

Job description

About the School - Downsend - Main:

Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.

About the School - Downsend - Main:

Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.

At Downsend, we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big, we celebrate innovation, and we never hold back.

We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Higher Level Learning Support Assistant to join our fantastic team.

About Cognita:

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world".

About the Role:

Hours: 37.5 hours, full-time during term-time only (34.8 weeks).

Employment type: Fixed-Term Contract linked to funding, from 01/09/26 to 31/08/27.

As a Learning Support Assistant, you will play a key role in helping students with SEND access learning, achieve their individual outcomes, and thrive within a supportive school environment. Working as part of the SEND Team, you will provide a combination of in-class support, small-group interventions, and one-to-one assistance tailored to each student's needs. You will help deliver strategies and interventions outlined in EHCPs, support students' emotional wellbeing, and contribute to creating a positive and inclusive learning experience. The role also involves working closely with teachers, parents, and external professionals, maintaining accurate records through Provision Map and iSAMS, and helping students develop the confidence, organisation, and resilience needed to succeed.

Who We Are Looking For:

You will be a positive, adaptable, and caring individual with experience working with young people, ideally within a school or SEND setting. You will understand a range of SEND profiles and be confident building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. Strong communication, organisational skills, and the ability to remain calm in a busy environment are essential. We are looking for someone who can motivate and encourage students, use initiative, and bring a supportive yet fun approach to their work. Experience working with teenagers, delivering interventions, and supporting students with additional needs will be highly valued.

Benefits at Cognita:

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in our company's pension scheme
• Free lunch provided during Term Time
• School holidays and public holidays
• Free parking on site (subject to availability)
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third-party discounts
• Ongoing professional development

Closing date: 23:59 BST (UTC+1), Sunday 16th August 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.