Learning Support Assistant

Autism Anglia; Colchester; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff wellbeing programmes

Free counselling

Free on-site parking

Blue Light Card discounts

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Doucecroft School, Eight Ash Green, Colchester, CO6, part of Autism Anglia, is seeking Learning Support Assistants to join a friendly team. You will support learners in group and individual settings and assist with lesson preparation, ISPs and care plans under supervision.

The role emphasizes safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and building emotional resilience. NVQ 3 in SSTL (desirable), Maths/English GCSEs (C+), and autism experience are assets; driving license is a bonus.

Qualifications

• NVQ Level 3 in Supporting Teaching and Learning (desirable)
• Maths GCSE Grade C or above
• English GCSE Grade C or above
• Experience with learners with autism or learning disabilities (advantageous)
• Driving license desirable

Responsibilities

• Provide direct support to learners in group and individual settings
• Assist with planning for lessons, ISPs and Care Plans under direction of the class teacher
• Support learners in classroom activities and during visits/excursions
• Contribute to wellbeing, safeguarding and trauma-informed approaches
• Assist with lunchtime supervision and supervision during breaks

Education

NVQ Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning

Maths GCSE Grade C or above

English GCSE Grade C or above

Job description

Job Introduction

Are you passionate about helping young people reach their full potential? Doucecroft School, part of Autism Anglia, are looking for Learning Support Assistants to join our friendly and dedicated team.

Location

Doucecroft School, Eight Ash Green, Colchester, CO6

Salary

£22,607.28 per annum (term-time only, plus additional training days)

Hours

38.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 39 weeks per year (term time only) plus 3 training days during school holidays

What The Role Involves

• Provide direct support to our learners in their learning environment in both a group and individual setting


• Taking an active role in a wide range of classroom and physical activities throughout the academic year; assisting and working closely with the Class Teacher and Teaching Assistant to contribute to lessons


• Gain excellent on-the-job training together with continued professional development, support, and supervision


• Apply a nurturing and trauma-informed approach, demonstrating an understanding of SEMH needs and using appropriate strategies to support pupils' emotional wellbeing, resilience and learning.


• Assist with the preparation for lessons, contribute towards and carry out schemes of work and Individual Student Plans (ISP) and Care Plans under the direction of the class teacher


• Keeping an up-to-date knowledge of each learner's stage of development regarding assessment, communication, ISPs, and management program


• Supporting the class teacher in planning and preparing for educational visits and school journeys and accompanying learners on visits


• Working with learners at lunchtime and supervising break times


• To comply with and promote to others, the policies and procedures relating to the school, specifically those relating to child protection, safeguarding, health and safety, security confidentiality, and data protection


• Potential driving responsibilities

Most importantly, we’re looking for someone with patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for supporting young people.

What We’re Looking For

• NVQ Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning is highly desirable but not essential


• Maths and English GCSE Grade C or above


• Relevant experience working with learners with autism or learning disabilities in an educational setting is highly advantageous


• Driving license highly desirable

Benefits & Support

• At Doucecroft, we know our staff are at the heart of everything we do, so we make sure you’re supported too. We provide:


• Staff wellbeing programmes and mental health support, including free counselling


• 24/7 GP access, bereavement counselling and a probate helpline


• Comprehensive training, supervision and career development opportunities


• Free on-site parking


• Blue Light Card discounts across major retailers and services


• Life cover, dental support and independent financial advice


• A supportive and accessible leadership team

Doucecroft School also offers an excellent work-life balance, supported by its ethos and small class sizes.

Commitment to Diversity

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

Doucecroft is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, and we expect all staff to share this commitment.

This role is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, registration with the DBS Update Service, and other relevant checks, including verbal verification of references.

We welcome applications from all individuals who meet the requirements of the role and may wish to request flexible working or reasonable adjustments.

Please note: unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship. Candidates must already have the right to work in the UK.