Learning Support Assistant

The Education Network; Smethwick; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

The Education Network in Smethwick is seeking a Learning Support Assistant to provide dedicated 1:1 support for a primary pupil with complex needs. You will adapt activities, support literacy and numeracy, and help the child participate in everyday school life.

Working with teaching staff and SENCO, you will follow individual support plans and contribute to the pupil's progress, wellbeing and inclusion within the class community.

Qualifications

• Degree in Psychology, Educational Psychology, Child Development or a closely related discipline.
• GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above.
• Enhanced DBS with children's barred list check before starting.
• SEN understanding and awareness of complex learning needs.
• Personal qualities: patience, adaptability and strong communication.
• Relevant experience in SEN, childcare, mentoring or specialist support (desirable).

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 assistance so a pupil with complex needs can access lessons.
• Adapt literacy and numeracy tasks using visual resources and steps.
• Support communication development with specialist strategies.
• Help manage sensory needs, transitions and emotional regulation.
• Encourage social engagement, independence and participation with peers.
• Collaborate with teacher, SENCO and staff to follow support plans.

Skills

SEN Understanding

Patience

Communication skills

Adaptability

Experience with SEN/childcare

Education

2:2 degree in Psychology / Educational Psychology / Child Development or related

Job description

Learning Support Assistant

Could you provide dedicated 1:1 support to a primary school child with complex special educational needs?

This Learning Support Assistant role in Smethwick will involve adapting classroom activities, supporting communication and helping a pupil develop confidence, independence and essential learning skills.

• Learning Support Assistant
• Immediate start until July 2027
• £90 - £101 per day
• Primary school based in Smethwick
• 1:1 support for a child with complex needs

Your Duties

• Provide consistent 1:1 assistance, helping a pupil with complex needs access lessons and participate in everyday school activities.
• Adapt literacy and numeracy tasks using visual resources, practical materials and manageable learning steps.
• Support communication development through agreed specialist strategies, visual prompts and individualised interaction.
• Help the pupil manage sensory needs, classroom transitions and emotional regulation through structured routines.
• Encourage social engagement, independence and participation in activities alongside classmates.
• Work with the class teacher, SENCO and specialist staff to follow individual support plans and monitor progress.

The School

This primary school in Smethwick is seeking a dedicated Learning Support Assistant to provide individual support for a pupil with complex educational needs. You will work closely with teaching staff to deliver personalised learning activities and help the child participate in school life. The role offers valuable experience of specialist interventions, inclusive education and child development, particularly for those considering Educational Psychology, SEN teaching or related careers.

The Requirements

• Degree – A 2:2 or above in Psychology, Educational Psychology, Child Development or a closely related discipline.
• GCSE Qualifications – English and Maths at grade 4/C or above.
• Enhanced DBS – An Enhanced DBS with the appropriate children's barred list check is required before starting.
• SEN Understanding – Awareness of complex learning needs, communication difficulties and individual support strategies.
• Personal Qualities – Patience, adaptability and strong communication skills, with a commitment to pupil wellbeing.
• Relevant Experience – Previous SEN, childcare, mentoring or specialist support experience is desirable but not essential.