SEND Learning Support Assistant - Specialist SEND School

TeacherActive Ltd; Leigh on Sea; On-site; GBP 13,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

TeacherActive Ltd is seeking a dedicated SEND Learning Support Assistant (LSA) for a specialist independent SEND school in the UK. The role involves 1:1 and small-group support for pupils aged 8–18 with MLD, SLD and ASD, assisting teachers and therapists to deliver tailored learning.

You will use visual aids, positive behaviour strategies and EHCP targets to foster independence and essential life skills, while safeguarding and building trusting relationships with pupils.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting children with SEND, including MLD/SLD or autism.
• Ability to adapt support to different learning needs and activities.
• Calm, patient, and empathetic approach with vulnerable young people.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with pupils and colleagues.
• Understanding of EHCPs and individualised learning programmes.

Responsibilities

• Provide 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with MLD/SLD/autism and additional needs.
• Support pupils aged 8–18 with academic, emotional, social and personal development.
• Assist teachers in delivering differentiated and engaging activities.
• Support pupils with communication difficulties, sensory needs or emotional dysregulation.
• Apply positive behaviour management and de-escalation techniques as needed.
• Help pupils develop independence, confidence, and practical life skills.
• Support EHCP targets and personal development goals.
• Use visual aids and structured routines to aid learning.
• Build trusting relationships and promote a safe, inclusive environment.
• Encourage participation in classroom activities and therapeutic interventions.

Skills

SEND experience

1:1 support

Behaviour management

EHCP awareness

Job description

Job Title: SEND Learning Support Assistant (LSA)

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Type: Temporary / Long-Term Opportunities

Salary: Competitive Daily Rate

Do you have experience supporting children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)?

Are you confident supporting pupils with Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Are you a patient, compassionate and enthusiastic individual who is passionate about helping young people overcome barriers to learning?

TeacherActive is proud to be working with a specialist independent SEND school based in

8–18 with a range of additional learning needs, including Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD), Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), autism and associated social, emotional and behavioural needs.

The school provides a nurturing, therapeutic and highly personalised learning environment, with small class sizes and a strong focus on each pupil's individual development. Pupils benefit from tailored education programmes, specialist support and a curriculum designed to promote academic achievement, emotional wellbeing, independence and essential life skills.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic

SEND Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join the school's supportive team. The successful candidate will work closely with teachers, therapists and other professionals to provide high-quality support to pupils with complex and varying needs.

The Role

• Providing 1:1 and small-group support to pupils with MLD, SLD, autism and additional learning needs.
• Supporting children and young people aged 8–18 with their academic, emotional, social and personal development.
• Assisting teachers in delivering differentiated and engaging learning activities tailored to pupils' individual abilities.
• Supporting pupils who may experience communication difficulties, sensory processing differences and emotional dysregulation.
• Using positive behaviour management strategies and appropriate de-escalation techniques to support pupils displaying challenging behaviour.
• Helping pupils develop independence, confidence, communication skills and practical life skills.
• Supporting pupils with individual Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) targets and personal development goals.
• Using visual aids, structured routines and alternative communication strategies to support learning and engagement.
• Building positive, trusting relationships with pupils who may have experienced previous difficulties within mainstream education.
• Encouraging pupils to participate in classroom activities, therapeutic interventions and enrichment opportunities.
• Working collaboratively with teachers and other professionals to create a safe, inclusive and supportive educational environment.
• Following safeguarding procedures and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of all pupils.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Previous experience supporting children or young people with SEND, particularly MLD, SLD or autism.
• An understanding of different learning needs and the ability to adapt support accordingly.
• Experience supporting pupils with communication difficulties, sensory needs or challenging behaviour.
• A calm, patient and empathetic approach to working with vulnerable young people.
• Confidence implementing positive behaviour management and emotional regulation strategies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with pupils and colleagues.
• An understanding of EHCPs and individualised learning programmes.
• The ability to encourage independence while providing appropriate levels of support.
• A flexible, proactive and resilient attitude.A genuine passion for supporting young people with additional needs to achieve their full potential.

Previous experience in specialist SEND schools, alternative provisions, residential care or support work would be highly desirable.

In Return for the Above, You Can Expect:

• A dedicated team of consultants available 24/7 to support you throughout your placement.
• Access to our industry-leading CPD courses and certificates through the My-Progression channel.
• Competitive rates of pay.
• TeacherActive Referral Scheme – receive a £100 Amazon voucher when you refer a friend (terms and conditions apply).
• PAYE payment, ensuring you are paid correctly with no hidden administration charges.
• Opportunities for long-term placements and career progression within specialist SEND education.

Registration involves an enhanced DBS check, identity checks and the provision of good professional references. We pride ourselves on excellent service. We can provide a wide range of opportunities in schools and other educational institutions, with good rates of pay, at times to suit your needs.

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business in providing temporary or contract job-seeking services.

About TeacherActive

TeacherActive is one of the UK’s leading education recruitment agencies, with over 20 years of experience supporting schools and education professionals. We place teachers and support staff into a wide range of temporary, contract and permanent roles, helping candidates find rewarding opportunities that suit their experience, availability and career goals. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent service to both our schools and candidates.

TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business and Employment Agency in providing temporary, contract and permanent job seeking services.

Safeguarding and DBS Compliance

Registration may involve an enhanced DBS check, ID checks and the supply of good professional references, depending on the role. We are committed to safeguarding and compliance across all placements.

Regular external audits have shown repeatedly that our standards are exceptional. We are passionate about finding the right staff for each education environment.