Learning Assistant Level 2 + SEN

St Helens Council; Wigan; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CPD opportunities

Inclusive environment

Enhanced DBS supported

Job summary

St Helens Council invites applications for a Learning Assistant Level 2 + SEN to join the Orchard Specialist Provision, a new setting for 32 children with autism. Based at Burnage Avenue, Clock Face, St Helens, WA9 4QB, the role offers a supportive environment with strong teamwork and opportunities for professional development.

We value inclusive education and encourage applicants who are passionate about helping children with SEND to thrive.

Qualifications

• Passionate about inclusive education and helping children with SEND to thrive.
• Experience or willingness to learn in supporting children with autism.
• Ability to work as part of a supportive, collaborative team.

Skills

SEND support

Autism awareness

Team collaboration

Communication with families

Education

Level 2 Teaching Assistant

Tools

Makaton

Communication boards

Job description

Inspire. Educate. Empower.

Due to our exciting expansion we are seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Learning Assistant Level 2 + SEN to join our brand new Orchard Specialist Provision with a friendly and committed team. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a supportive environment where professional development is encouraged, and every child is valued.

The Orchard specialist provision is based at Burnage Avenue, Clock Face, St Helens, WA9 4QB

The Orchard opened in September 2025 as a satellite of our well-established Rectory Specialist Provision for children with autism. It will offer a nurturing and structured learning environment for 32 children across four specialist classrooms. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a new and inspiring setting from the very beginning.

Start date as soon as possible.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has a passion for teaching and learning
• Builds strong relationships with pupils, parents, and colleagues
• Is committed to high standards and achieving the best outcomes for all
• Embraces creativity and innovation in the classroom
• Works well as part of a team and contributes positively to school life

• Passionate about inclusive education and committed to helping children with autism thrive.
• Experienced (or keen to learn) in supporting children with SEND, especially those with communication, sensory, and social needs.
• A caring, patient, and adaptable individual who supports learning and development in creative, personalised ways.
• A strong team player who communicates well with teachers, families, and other professionals.
• Positive, reliable, and ready to make a real difference in the lives of our pupils every day.

Working at Orchard Specialist provision

Joining our school means becoming part of a vibrant, supportive community where every day brings new opportunities to inspire and be inspired. Here, you’re not just a teacher or staff member — you’re a vital part of a team dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child.

What We Can Offer

At The Orchard we provide a warm, inclusive, and inspiring community. We offer:

• A rare opportunity to help shape a new specialist provision from day one.
• A dedicated and supportive team who are passionate about autism education.
• A personalised, EHCP-led curriculum based on the EQUALS framework, including informal and semi-formal learning pathways.
• High-quality ongoing CPD, including autism‑specific approaches such as Attention Autism, Communication boards, Makaton, and sensory integration.
• Strong connections with our main school, offering enriching experiences and meaningful inclusion for all pupils.
• A rewarding role where every day brings purpose, connection, and joyful learning moments.

At Rectory and Orchard, ‘God is our Strength’ and is at the heart of how we live. We are a caring and nurturing school community, where everyone can feel safe and happy, have somewhere they are proud to belong to and strive for the best for themselves and each other.

Our staff enjoy:

• A collaborative and friendly environment where ideas are valued and shared
• The rewarding experience of seeing students grow, succeed, and develop confidence
• Opportunities for continuous professional growth and leadership development
• The chance to make a real difference, shaping the future of our students
• A culture that balances high expectations with genuine care and respect

At Orchard Specialist Provision, we believe that happy, motivated staff create the best learning experience. That’s why we prioritize wellbeing, celebrate achievements, and foster a strong sense of belonging.

Come join us — where your passion for education meets a community that truly cares.

Orchard Specialist provision is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Be part of something extraordinary—where every child is celebrated, and every day is a chance to make a difference.

Closing Date: Thursday 8th October 2026
Shortlisting: Friday 9th October 2026
Interviews and Observations: w/c 12th October 2026

Please note we reserve the right to close the advert early should we receive a sufficient number of applications and encourage you to apply early, to avoid disappointment.

Full Job Description & Person Specification Documents are included with this advert.

This is an Enhanced Disclosure post.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation. The Council guarantees an interview to disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for the job, as detailed on the Person Specification, and will, for qualifying disabled candidates, make reasonable adjustments within selection.