Learning Support Assistant

GSL Education; Aylesford; On-site; GBP 11,000 - 17,000; Full time

Job summary

GSL Education is hiring a Learning Support Assistant in Ashford, Kent. You will work in specialist settings, supporting pupils with diverse needs to access learning and develop essential skills.

You’ll help with classroom activities, reinforce communication and social skills, and provide encouragement to help each pupil reach their potential in a nurturing, inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a school or SEN setting would be advantageous but not required.
• Transferable skills from childcare, care, residential support, youth work or similar roles are valuable.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with classroom activities on a one-to-one basis and in small groups.
• Help children develop communication, social interaction and independent learning skills.
• Provide reassurance and encouragement when pupils experience difficulties with learning or daily routines.
• Support pupils with additional needs, including autism, ADHD and sensory or social/emotional needs.
• Collaborate with teachers and other professionals to support individual learning goals.
• Encourage positive behaviour, engagement and participation while celebrating pupils’ achievements.

Job description

Job description

Learning Support Assistant

Location: Ashford, Kent
Salary Scale: £ per day, depending on experience
Start Date: ASAP
Contract Type: Long-term/Flexible

Make a difference every day. Help every child reach their potential.

Do you want to help children overcome barriers to learning, discover their strengths and develop the confidence to achieve their goals?

GSL Education Kent are recruiting caring, patient and enthusiastic Learning Support Assistants to work across specialist schools and educational settings in Ashford, supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

This is a rewarding opportunity to help pupils feel safe, understood and included while supporting their academic, social and personal development.

Whether you’re an experienced Learning Support Assistant or someone with transferable skills who is keen to build a career in education, we’d love to hear from you.

Why consider a role with us?

Rewarding work that matters

Support children as they develop new skills, build independence and grow in confidence. From small steps forward to major achievements, your contribution can help pupils make progress in ways that matter to them.

Opportunities to suit you

We work with a variety of educational settings and can help you explore opportunities that match your experience, availability and career goals. Depending on current vacancies, these may include day-to-day supply, short-term assignments and longer-term placements.

Develop your skills and experience

Gain hands‑on experience supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, develop your understanding of inclusive education and build valuable skills for a career in education or support work.

Support throughout your journey

Our recruitment team will work with you to understand your preferences and help identify suitable opportunities, keeping you updated as relevant vacancies arise.

What will you be doing?

As a Learning Support Assistant, you’ll help provide a positive, inclusive and nurturing environment where pupils feel encouraged to participate, learn and develop at their own pace.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Supporting pupils with classroom activities on a one-to-one basis and in small groups.

• Helping children develop communication, social interaction and independent learning skills.

• Providing reassurance and encouragement when pupils experience difficulties with learning or daily routines.

• Supporting pupils with a range of additional needs, including autism, ADHD, communication difficulties, sensory needs and social, emotional and mental health needs.

• Working collaboratively with teachers and other professionals to support individual learning goals.

• Encouraging positive behaviour, engagement and participation while celebrating pupils’ achievements.

• Adapting your approach to reflect each child’s strengths, needs and preferred ways of learning.

Every child learns differently. Your understanding, consistency and encouragement can help pupils overcome challenges and recognise their own potential.

What makes a great Learning Support Assistant?

We’re looking for people who are:

• Patient, caring and empathetic.

• Reliable, positive and enthusiastic.

• Adaptable and calm when responding to changing situations.

• Able to build trusting, professional relationships with children and colleagues.

• Passionate about inclusion and supporting children with additional needs.

• Willing to learn, follow guidance and contribute positively to a team.

Experience in a school or SEN setting would be an advantage, but transferable experience from childcare, care, residential support, youth work or similar roles may also be valuable. Requirements will vary depending on the vacancy.

A full driving licence and access to a vehicle would be preferable, as some schools are situated in remote locations that may be difficult to reach using public transport.

Above all, we’re looking for people who genuinely want to help children succeed.