Learning Support Assistant (LSA) – Secondary SEN

Senploy; Bolton; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 17,000; Full time

Job summary

Educato Recruitment in Bolton is seeking a dedicated Learning Support Assistant to support secondary pupils with complex needs in a SEN school.

You will work alongside experienced teachers, providing 1:1 and small-group support, helping pupils access adapted activities and develop independence. A DBS check is essential to ensure safeguarding compliance.

Qualifications

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEN, ideally within a specialist school.
• Experience supporting pupils with PMLD, SLD or complex physical disabilities.
• A caring, patient and resilient approach.
• Understanding of alternative communication methods and sensory learning.
• Willingness to complete DBS checks as part of safeguarding requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils with SLD, PMLD, autism and complex physical and learning needs.
• Provide 1:1 and small-group support following EHCPs.
• Deliver adapted learning activities alongside the class teacher.
• Support non-verbal pupils using PECS, Makaton, visuals and sensory resources.
• Assist with personal care, feeding and mobility where required.

Skills

SEN experience

PMLD/SLD experience

1:1 & small-group support

DBS Update Service

Education

Relevant SEN support training or education

Job description

Learning Support Assistant (LSA) - Secondary SEN

SEN Learning Support Assistant - Secondary - Bolton

Start Date: ASAP

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm

About the Role

Educato Recruitment is looking for a dedicated and proactive SEN Learning Support Assistant to join a specialist SEN school in Bolton, supporting secondary-aged pupils with a wide range of complex additional needs.

The school caters for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD), autism, physical disabilities and complex communication needs. Many pupils are working significantly below age-related expectations and require individualised support throughout the school day.

You will be working alongside experienced teachers and support staff in small classes, helping pupils access adapted learning activities, develop communication skills and build independence.

This is a hands‑on role where patience, consistency and a willingness to get involved in all aspects of school life are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils with SLD, PMLD, autism and complex physical and learning needs.
• Support pupils with SLD, PMLD, autism and complex physical and learning needs.
• Work alongside the class teacher to deliver adapted learning activities based on individual abilities.
• Work alongside the class teacher to deliver adapted learning activities based on individual abilities.
• Provide 1:1 and small-group support, following pupils' Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Provide 1:1 and small-group support, following pupils' Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
• Support non‑verbal pupils using communication methods such as PECS, Makaton, visual aids and sensory resources where appropriate.
• Support non‑verbal pupils using communication methods such as PECS, Makaton, visual aids and sensory resources where appropriate.
• Assist with personal care, feeding and mobility needs where required, following appropriate training and care plans.
• Assist with personal care, feeding and mobility needs where required, following appropriate training and care plans.
• Support sensory‑based learning activities to encourage engagement and development.
• Support sensory‑based learning activities to encourage engagement and development.
• Help pupils develop independence, social interaction and essential life skills.
• Help pupils develop independence, social interaction and essential life skills.
• Maintain a safe, positive and structured learning environment.
• Maintain a safe, positive and structured learning environment.

What We're Looking For

• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEN, ideally within a specialist school.
• Previous experience working with children or young people with SEN, ideally within a specialist school.
• Experience supporting pupils with PMLD, SLD or complex physical disabilities would be particularly beneficial.
• Experience supporting pupils with PMLD, SLD or complex physical disabilities would be particularly beneficial.
• A caring, patient and resilient approach.
• A caring, patient and resilient approach.
• Confidence supporting pupils with personal care and physical needs.
• Confidence supporting pupils with personal care and physical needs.
• An understanding of alternative communication methods and sensory learning.
• An understanding of alternative communication methods and sensory learning.
• Someone reliable, proactive and happy to work as part of a close‑knit team.
• Someone reliable, proactive and happy to work as part of a close‑knit team.
• An enhanced Child and Adult Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service, or willingness to process the required checks. This is essential due to the age range and needs of pupils within the school.
• An enhanced Child and Adult Workforce DBS registered on the Update Service, or willingness to process the required checks. This is essential due to the age range and needs of pupils within the school.

Why Apply?

This is a fantastic long‑term opportunity for someone who genuinely enjoys working with young people with complex additional needs.

You’ll be joining an experienced and supportive SEN team where every day is different. The role offers the chance to build strong relationships with pupils, develop specialist SEN experience and make a meaningful difference to their learning and independence.

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS (child and adult workforce), satisfactory references, and full compliance with KCSIE (2026) guidance and safer recruitment standards. Overseas police checks may be required where applicable.

Educato Limited is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Educato Limited acts as an employment business in relation to this vacancy.