Learning support assistant

Five Education; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A nurturing educational institution in Plymouth is seeking a compassionate Learning Support Assistant to provide 1:1 support to a primary-aged pupil. This role focuses on emotional regulation and communication challenges, fostering a positive and secure learning environment. Ideal candidates will have experience with children who have additional needs and a commitment to inclusion. This rewarding position offers flexible term-time hours, specialized training, and further support throughout your tenure.

Benefits

Free specialized training

Free DBS

Recommendation bonuses

Qualifications

• Experience working with children with additional needs, particularly around communication or SEMH.
• Patient and empathetic approach to behaviour and learning support.
• Commitment to supporting the wellbeing and inclusion of every child.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 support tailored to the pupil’s communication and emotional needs.
• Build a trusting, positive relationship to encourage engagement and self-esteem.
• Help the pupil understand and manage emotions and transitions.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Teamworking

Job description

We are looking for a calm, compassionate, and committed Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to provide 1:1 support for a primary‑aged pupil at our inclusive and nurturing school in Plymouth. The pupil requires consistent, personalised support to help with communication challenges and emotional regulation, both in and out of the classroom. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real impact by helping a young learner feel secure, understood, and confident in their learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 support tailored to the pupil’s communication and emotional needs throughout the school day.
• Build a trusting, positive relationship to encourage engagement, resilience, and self‑esteem.
• Use visual aids, simplified language, or alternative communication strategies where appropriate.
• Help the pupil understand and manage emotions, transitions, and changes to routine.
• Work closely with the class teacher, SENDCo, and external professionals to deliver consistent support.
• Monitor progress and behaviours, contributing to reviews and support planning.
• Maintain a safe, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment.

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience working with children with additional needs, particularly around communication or SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health).
• Patient and empathetic approach to behaviour and learning support.
• Good communication and teamworking skills.
• A commitment to supporting the wellbeing and inclusion of every child.
• Non‑voluntary Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or the ability to process a new one at a cost of £62.70 – refunded after 20 days of work).

Working Conditions

Roles are term‑time only and start ASAP until July 2022. It will then pick up again from September onwards.

What Five Education can offer you?

• Check out our Google reviews for one of the best supply experiences in Bristol!
• Free specialised training in areas such as Team Teach, Makaton, PMLD/SLD Awareness, Autism Awareness, and more.
• Free DBS (refunded when you work 20 days).
• Recommending a friend bonus scheme.
• Specialist support/ mentoring while you are working.

We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as they are currently under‑represented at this level.

Five Education operates a PAYE payroll; this is the most transparent way to be paid with no hidden fees such as admin fee or employer’s NI. Pay rate is for illustration and does include holiday pay.

Vetting: Five Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all of the staff we employ to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo checks including reference checks, TRA checks and will need to have a DBS; there will also be an interview.

Contact Brett at (phone number removed). We are always available for an informal chat if you want to find out more about whether this role is suited to you.