Learning Support Assistant

The Graduate Network Birmingham; West Midlands; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

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

The role offers experience with specialist interventions, inclusive education and child development, and requires a DBS check, relevant qualifications, and a patient, adaptable approach to learning.

Qualifications

• Degree requirements: 2:2 or above in Psychology, Educational Psychology, Child Development or a closely related discipline.
• GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4/C or above.
• Enhanced DBS with appropriate children's barred list check is required before starting.
• SEN understanding for complex learning needs and effective support strategies.
• Personal qualities: patience, adaptability and strong communication with a commitment to pupil wellbeing.
• Experience in SEN, childcare, mentoring or specialist support is desirable but not essential.

Responsibilities

• 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 individualized 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.

Skills

SEN Understanding

Patience

Communication skills

Education

Degree – 2:2 or above in Psychology, Educational Psychology, Child Development or related

GCSE English and Maths grade 4/C or above

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.