Learning Support Assistants

Activate-Learning-1; Reading; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards

Wellbeing & Resources Groups

Education-related benefits & training

Job summary

Activate Learning is seeking dedicated Learning Support Assistants to join Reading College. You will support students with SEND, working with teaching staff to enable access to the curriculum and help them reach learning goals.

Roles are term-time only with fixed-term contracts from August 2026 to July 2027, with hours of 35, 28 or 21 per week between 8:30am and 5:00pm. We value empathy, resilience and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Experience working with young people or adults with SEND is desirable but not essential.
• GCSE English and Maths grade C/4 or above is required.
• Patient, empathetic and positive approach with strong communication.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to students with SEND from entry level to GCSE/Level 3.
• Assist students to access the curriculum and achieve learning goals.
• Support development of independence, life skills and employability.
• Promote positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing.
• Adapt resources to meet individual needs and work with tutors.

Skills

SEND experience

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Empathy

Teamwork

Safeguarding commitment

Education

GCSE English and Maths (C/4 or above)

Job description

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Learning Support Assistants

Reference: AUG20268479

Expiry date: 2026-08-31 22:59:00.000

Location: Reading

Benefits: Term time only, LGPS pension scheme, and access to other great benefits

Activate Learning is looking for dedicated, enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) to join our team at Reading College, support students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Our college is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for young people and adults with a range of additional needs. As part of our dedicated support team, you will play a key role in helping students achieve independence, confidence, and success in their education and future pathways.

About the Role as an LSA:

You will work closely with teaching staff to support students both in and out of the classroom. This may include supporting learners with autism, learning difficulties, physical disabilities, and social, emotional, and mental health needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small group support to students with SEND (This could range from entry level to GCSE’s and Level 3 courses)
• Assist students to access the curriculum and achieve their individual learning goals
• Support the development of independence, life skills, and employability skills
• Promote positive behaviour and emotional wellbeing
• Adapt resources and approaches to meet individual needs
• Work collaboratively with tutors and support services
• Support students with personal care and medication requirements where needed as part of the Learning Support Assistant role
• Attend and complete relevant training, including personal care, medication, and manual handling training

Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract (from August 2026 until July 2027)with the potential to be extended or made permanent.

Working Pattern: We are recruiting for a range of term-time only positions, with the addition of two weeks staff training at the beginning and end of the academic year. Contracted hours available are 35, 28 and 21 hours per week, between the hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm.

What do you need to be a successful Learning Support Assistant at Activate Learning?

• Experience working with young people or adults with SEND (desirable but not essential)
• Minimum GCSE English and Maths grade C/4 or above.
• A patient, empathetic, and positive approach
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build trusting relationships with students
• Flexible, proactive, and able to work as part of a team
• Commitment to inclusion and safeguarding

If you’re passionate about making a meaningful impact and want to join a supportive, learner-centred team, this is an excellent opportunity to begin or further your career in education. You’ll work within a vibrant college environment where your contribution plays an important role in supporting student success and wellbeing.

What We Offer

• A supportive and inclusive college community
• Ongoing training and professional development in SEND and specialist support
• Development opportunities within the role can include access to relevant training and apprenticeship pathways, including Level 3 Teaching Assistant programmes.
• Opportunities to develop your career within further education
• A rewarding role where you can make a real difference to students’ futures

Who we are

Activate Learning is a pioneering education group with a global reach, committed to transforming lives through our approach to learning.

We see our employees as individuals, empowering them to make the right choices for their ambitions and careers. We value our people as vital to our continued success and aspire to a diverse, open and inclusive environment that provides the motivation for everyone to pursue their career goals and flourish.

When you work for Activate Learning, you’re working for an organisation that provides you with the advantages of a large employer, a trusted partner in your career development, and a transformational way of working whilst also investing in building a community environment for everyone.

Together, we will bring out the best version of yourself.

Activate Learning Group Employee Benefits:

• Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards: Celebrating staff for their dedication and accomplishments aligned to our award-winning Learning Philosophy.
• Wellbeing & Resources Groups: Comprehensive range of resources, guides and tools to support staff wellbeing
• Company benefits: Including free eye tests and will writing, plus access to a Health Cash Plan covering optical, dental, health screening, and therapy treatments for you and your dependents.
• Learning and Development: continuous opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement through our in-house L&D team.
• Pension Schemes: Local Government pension schemes for AL staff
• Generous Annual Leave: Up to 6 weeks paid leave
• Competitive salaries: Annual incremental progression and a twelve point pay scale for teachers.
• On-Site Facilities: Free parking at all campuses, refectories, hair and beauty salons & gym access.

Applicants should apply at the earliest opportunity; closed vacancies will prevent application form submission.

Applications are reviewed and shortlisted on a rolling basis, we reserve the right to interview, appoint and close adverts.

Activate Learning is committed to safeguarding and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check at the appropriate level.

Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet or exceed minimum criteria, regardless of age, disability, gender, orientation, race, religion, or ethnicity. Activate Learning are committed to employing people with disabilities and will ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible. If you require any reasonable adjustments either at application or interview stage, please contact the talent team directly.

Recruitment agencies who submit unsolicited CVs to any partner or employee at Activate Learning, have no authority to enter an arrangement. Recruitment agencies engaging with Activate Learning Talent Team will be on our PSL.