Learning Support Assistant - Apprenticeship x20

United Colleges Group; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

United Colleges Group is seeking a Learning Support Assistant Apprentice to join the SEND team within Student Services. You will receive exceptional training to progress and develop a career in learning support while gaining a recognised qualification.

You will support learners with SEND on a 1:1 and small group basis, helping them access the curriculum, build independence and achieve learning goals. The role includes safeguarding, IT use, and promoting inclusion.

Qualifications

• GCSE English and Maths at Level 2 or equivalent is required to support learners.
• Experience working with or supporting young people with learning needs is essential.
• Knowledge of safeguarding responsibilities is essential.
• Familiarity with SEND Code of Practice (2014) is desirable but not mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Support learners on 1:1 and small group basis, in and out of the classroom.
• Assist with catch‑up, revision sessions and exam access arrangements.
• Deliver enrichment activities and college events.
• Provide lunchtime support, pastoral support and, where required, personal care.
• Promote inclusion, positive behaviour, self‑esteem and independence for learners with SEND.

Skills

1:1 support

Small group support

IT proficiency

Communication

Inclusion & safeguarding

Emotional resilience

Education

GCSE English & Maths Level 2

Teaching Assistant qualification desirable

SEND-related qualifications desirable

Degree in a relevant subject desirable

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

We are seeking Learning Support Assistants to join our team - in the form of an Apprentice to join our SEND team within Student Services and be provided with exceptional training and skills to allow individuals to progress further should they wish to.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about working with young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and who wishes to develop a career in learning support while gaining a recognised qualification. This role has further opportunities for staff to potentially progress into teaching and also be supported to gain a teaching qualification after the apprenticeship is concluded.

In this role, you will support learners on a 1:1 and small group basis, both in and out of the classroom, helping them to access the curriculum, build independence and achieve their learning goals. You will work closely with lecturers, support teams and external professionals to deliver high-quality, student-focused support in line with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) and Individual Support Plans.

Your duties will include supporting learners during lessons, catch‑up and revision sessions, exam access arrangements, enrichment activities and college events. You may also provide lunchtime support, pastoral support and, where required, personal care. A strong focus of the role is promoting inclusion, positive behaviour, self‑esteem and independence for learners with SEND.

As an apprentice, you will attend all scheduled training days, complete off‑the‑job training, and apply new skills and knowledge in practice. Applicants who do not already hold English and Maths at Level 2 will be required to achieve these prior to completing the End Point Assessment., We are looking for a motivated, enthusiastic and student‑focused individual who is committed to supporting young people with additional needs.

You will have GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4 or above in English and Maths, experience of working with or supporting young people with learning needs, and an understanding of safeguarding responsibilities. Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice (2014) is essential.

You will be well organised, confident using IT systems (including Microsoft Office), and able to build positive, professional relationships with learners and colleagues. A genuine interest in SEND, a commitment to inclusion and equality, and the emotional resilience to work with challenging behaviour are key to success in this role.

Teaching Assistant or SEND‑related qualifications, or a degree in a relevant subject, are desirable but not essential.

United Colleges Group provides education to over 11,000 learners a year, including 16‑18‑year‑olds, adults, apprentices, and students with high needs, across our five campuses and two colleges; City of Westminster College and College of North West London. The Cockpit Theatre also forms part of the Group.

With an annual turnover of over £50m, we are one of the top 20 largest college groups in the UK. We offer education and training in almost all vocational areas at a variety of levels for a wide range of learners of all ages and starting points.

Our mission is to provide all our learners with the very best knowledge and to break down any barriers to learning. We pride ourselves on enabling our learners to meet their individual needs and aspirations and we deliver a learning experience that is unique, enjoyable and rewarding.

United Colleges Group is committed to fostering a culture of respect, inclusion and belonging, where everyone is valued and supported. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.